Clin Osteol 2023; 28(4): 133-138

Effects of selected heavy metals on the metabolism and healing processes of craniofacial bonesReview articles

Bijowski Kamil¹, Bortnik Piotr¹, Kornowska Gabriela², Dziewski Go Dawid², Lewandowska Patrycja², Czachorowski Antoni², Borys Jan¹

¹ Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, Medical University of Bialystok/Klinika Chirurgii Szczękowo-Twarzowej i Plastycznej, Uniwersytet Medyczny w Białymstoku/Białystok, Poland

² Student science club at the Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, Medical University of Bialystok/Studenckie Koło Naukowe, Klinika Chirurgii Szczękowo-Twarzowej i Plastycznej, Uniwersytet Medyczny w Białymstoku/Białystok, Poland

Introduction: The healing of craniofacial bones is a complex and multi-stage process that can be influenced by many factors of endogenous and exogenous origin. These factors include heavy metals, which play a significant role in the metabolism of the human body. Fractures of the craniofacial bones carry a particular risk, both because of their proximity to many important anatomical structures but also because of the function they represent for the beginning of two important systems: the digestive system and the respiratory system. It is therefore important to restore full function and normal bone metabolism as soon as possible.

Objective: The aim of this study was to review the scientific literature on the effects of selected heavy metals: cadmium, zinc, lead, mercury, iron on the metabolism and healing processes of craniofacial bones.

Material and methods: An analysis of the available sources shows that cadmium, zinc and lead have a negative impact on the physiological processes leading to skeletal fusion. In contrast, iron play a positive role in bone-forming processes. The effect of mercury on craniofacial bone metabolism is not yet fully understood. Summary: In summary, it can be concluded that heavy metals affect the healing processes and metabolism of craniofacial bones to varying degrees. The impact of these substances is not always negative. It should be borne in mind that it is extremely important to minimise the supply of some of these substances during the healing process directed at bone fusion.

Published: December 11, 2023  Show citation