Comparison of macerations with dermestid larvae, potassium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite in Wistar rat crania

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the most effective maceration method to remove soft tissue without altering bone tissue conformation.Methods: A comparison was made between maceration with insects and chemical maceration performed on heads of Wistar rats. The sample consisted of 18 biomodels, six of which were macerated by dermestid larvae and the remaining 12 divided into two groups for chemical maceration, one with potassium hydroxide and the other with sodium hypochlorite. In chemical maceration, 1%, 5% and 10% concentrations were used with varying exposure times and temperature.Results: The ideal method for soft tissue maceration, preserving all bone components, was shown to be maceration with insects. Potassium hydroxide was effective in the removal of soft tissue. However, being a highly corrosive chemical agent, it altered the integrity of the bone tissue. Sodium hypochlorite did not meet the maceration objective.Conclusion: This research is relevant in its contribution to discussions on appropriate maceration techniques for small bone structures.

Keywords:

maceration, soft tissue maceration, bone, osteology, bone tissue integrity, tissue dissolution chemical maceration, dermestid,

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