Experimental study on healing of bone fractures using L-dopa.

Internal fixation with plate and screws was combined with administration of L-Dopa, which presumably operates by stimulating release of growth hormone. The combination induces osteogenesis, callus formation and complete union in the experimental femur osteotomy gap (10-20 mm long). Complete clinical and radiologic union was achieved in dogs treated for 3-6 weeks, thus achieving healing of a bone gap which otherwise would have formed a pseudarthrosis.