Callus mineralization following distraction osteogenesis of the mandible monitored by scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM).

Background: Scanning acoustic microscopy uses ultrasound to analyse histomorphology of tissues with microscopic resolution and delivers data about physical properties of the specimen.

Material And Methods: Bony consolidation was monitored by scanning acoustic microscopy in 12 embedded specimens of dog mandibles after distraction osteogenesis. Increasing mineralization was detected by measurements of acoustic impedance (Z).

Results: There was a strong correlation between acoustic impedance and time of consolidation. Measurements of the speed of sound (v) provided specific information about non-mineralized zones of the distracted area. Distribution of density in the distracted area could be reconstructed by using the measurements of acoustic impedance and speed of sound.

Conclusion: The method seems suitable for studying bone remodelling qualitatively and quantitatively.