Histomorphometric analyses of bone storage in saline solution or PPP

Introduction: In reconstrucion procedures it is common that bone fragment stay in extraoral storage during recipient site preparation. Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyze histomorphometrically calvarium bone grafts kept in saline physiological solution or Platelet Poor Plasma (PPP). Methods: Calvarial bone fragments were obtained from twelve rabbits and fixed immediately in 10% formalin or stored either in PPP or in saline solution during 30 minutes prior to fixation. All specimens were decalcified in EDTA and embedded in glycol metacrylate. A osteocyte differential count (normal osteocyte, abnormal osteocyte, empty lacunae) was carried out for the sections. Results: The histomorphometric analysis showed a statically significant reduction in the number of normal osteocytes after storage in PPP or saline solution. The amount of abnormal osteocytes and empty lacunae also increased in these groups Saline solution storage presented the worst results. Conclusion: The current study has shown that PPP is a better storage solution than physiological saline solution.