Recombinant human bone morphogenic protein-2 in fracture care.

Recombinant human bone morphogenic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is an osteoinductive protein that is now available for the acute treatment of open tibial fracture. Data from preclinical and clinical trials support its role in fracture care. This article summarizes data from two randomized controlled clinical trials investigating the safety and efficacy of rhBMP-2 in patients with open tibial shaft fractures and tibial fractures with bone defects. Also included is a summary of an economic analysis that examined the cost impact of rhBMP-2 from a hospital and payor perspective.