Intra-allantoic implantation: an alternative to the classical chorioallantoic membrane grafting technique.

A grafting method is described wherein donor tissue is partially inserted into a small slit cut into the proximal portion of the allantoic membrane of chick embryos aged 3.5-5.5 days. Cartilaginous bone rudiments handled in this manner readily vascularize, grow significantly, and begin osteogenesis within a 3-day incubation period. Compared to traditional chorioallantoic membrane grafting, usually done with hosts aged 9-12 days, the proposed intra-allantoic technique (1) greatly increased the period in which grafted materials are in residence (potentially up to 15 days) and (2) permits assessment of the host response of relatively young embryos.