[Animal experimentation of reimplantation of hypertonic saline-induced devitalized bone]

To observe the healing process and the change of biomechanical properties of hypertonic saline-induced devitalized bone segment, so as to provide fundamental theory for clinical treatment.

A model of New Zealand rabbit ulnar segments devitalized by hypertonic saline was established and then reimplanted in situ. The ulnar specimens were taken for examination of X-rays, light microscope and three-point-bend test at the end of 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively.

The devitalized bone healed at the end of 12 weeks in the X-ray film. The histological examination showed that osteoblast multiplied and secreted osteoid gradually. The maximal breaking load of the devitalized bone continuously increased and reached the top at the end of 24 weeks [control group (206.25±16.64) N vs. devitalized group (196.88±8.24) N, P>0.05].

The devitalized bone healed through intramembranous and endochondral ossification, and the endochondral ossification predominated; the biomechanical strength of devitalized bone continually increased as time lasted.