OBJECTIVES: A new microfocus computerized tomography (R-mCT) system that quickly produces clear images of the bones of small animals allows the continuous observation of living experimental animals. This study used the new R-mCT system to examine the dynamics of marrow penetration within a titanium cap in rabbit calvarium. STUDY DESIGN: In a rabbit, the calvarium was exposed, and circular grooves were prepared bilaterally. Within the circular groove, the external cortical surface of the skull was perforated mechanically. The rate of penetration was 28% (experiment) or 14% (control). Images of bone augmentation within the titanium cap were taken using R-mCT. RESULTS: The augmented mineralized tissue increased gradually with repeated resorption and acceleration. The dynamics of bone augmentation did not differ with the penetration rate. CONCLUSIONS: Accurate noninvasive longitudinal monitoring of bone augmentation or response to therapy can now be done in the same living animal by using R-mCT.
OBJECTIVES: A new microfocus computerized tomography (R-mCT) system that quickly produces clear images of the bones of small animals allows the continuous observation of living experimental animals. This study used the new R-mCT system to examine the dynamics of marrow penetration within a titanium cap in rabbit calvarium. STUDY DESIGN: In a rabbit, the calvarium was exposed, and circular grooves were prepared bilaterally. Within the circular groove, the external cortical surface of the skull was perforated mechanically. The rate of penetration was 28% (experiment) or 14% (control). Images of bone augmentation within the titanium cap were taken using R-mCT. RESULTS: The augmented mineralized tissue increased gradually with repeated resorption and acceleration. The dynamics of bone augmentation did not differ with the penetration rate. CONCLUSIONS: Accurate noninvasive longitudinal monitoring of bone augmentation or response to therapy can now be done in the same living animal by using R-mCT.