Fracture in Irradiated Rat Femur: A Description of an Experimental Model and Evaluation of its Effectiveness

Objective  We aim to describe an experimental model for studying femoral fractures in rats after exposure to ionizing radiation, demonstrating a way to apply a substance for analysis, the method for patterning fracture and irradiation, and how to evaluate its effectiveness based on radiographic studies. Methods  We used 24 rats divided into 2 groups of 12 animals each. The STUDY group was exposed to ionizing radiation and treated with saline solution, and the CONTROL group was not exposed to radiation and was treated with saline solution. All animals were subjected to standardized fracture of the right femur that was fixed with intramedullary wire. The efficiency of the bone union was assessed by radiographic exam. Results  Fracture healing was more efficient in bones not exposed to ionizing radiation ( p  = 0.012). All fractures met the criteria of being simple, diaphyseal, transverse or short oblique. Conclusion  The experimental model presented is an efficient alternative for the study of fractures in irradiated bones in rats.