The Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is conducting research in two main categories: Basic research and clinical research.
Basic Research
Basic research is conducted in the laboratory of the department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and in cooperation with other laboratories in the Medical Center on the following topics:
Osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) and its effect on bone
One. Studies focus on the biosynthesis, binding proteins, receptor, intracellular signaling and therapeutic applications of a novel polypeptide hormone, OGP, discovered in the Bone Laboratory at the Hebrew University-Hadassah Faculty of Dental Medicine.
Two. The effect of Osteogenic Growth Peptide (OGP) on experimental fracture healing in Rats
Three. The effect of head injuries on synthesis of OGP
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders and pathogenesis
Replacement of the synovial fluid, including its hyaluronic acid, by normal saline does not reduce the efficiency of TMJ movements. It is hypothesized that a major lubricant component in the TMJ is to be found in addition to hyaluronic acid, which is adhered to the joint surface and keeps the joint function after the removal of hyaloronic acid. We are therefore looking for traces of other components in human TMJ synovial fluid. The aim of the study is to elucidate whether clinically applied specific molecules will act as an efficient lubricant in the TMJ.
Developing a model for osteorthritis in the Temporomandibular Joint using VEG.
Nerve Injuries
Mechanisms of neuropathic pain following peripheral nerve injury as happens following trauma to the head and neck, using a rodent model of anesthesia dolorosa following transection of a peripheral nerve.
Clinical Research
1. Distraction osteogenesis (Elongation of jaw bones)
2. The use of bone substitutes for augmentation of alveolar ridges
3. The use of Er: YAG Laser on bone surgery
4. Studires on study of neuropathic pain
5. Dental implantology
6. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and pathogenesis
7. The effect of orthognathic surgery on the TMJ