Histomorphometry is a fundamental technique within experimental implant research. The technique is used for estimating the quantity of e.g. bone on and around an implant.
In order to make an histomorphometric evaluation it is necessary to make 20-30µm thin histological slices containing implant surrounded by bone. These slices need to be made according to stereological principles in order to avoid bias. The estimation of e.g. the quantity of bone on and around an impalnt is done by placing the histological slices in a microscope. A video camera on the microscope transfers a picture of the histological slice to a computer where a software programme makes it possible to estimate e.g. the quantity of bone.
Histomorphometry is a very time-consuming process. Experimental studies have shown that histomorphometry can partly be replaced by microCT scanning. However, histomorphometry is the only technique that makes it possible to discriminate between different types of bone. |
