Ovariectomy and trabecular bone remodeling in the dog.

The early effects of ovariectomy (OX) on serum biochemistry and trabecular bone remodeling in the dog were investigated. Adult beagle dams were ovariectomized (n = 8) or sham-ovariectomized (n = 6) and followed for 6 months. All dogs received an iliac crest biopsy at the time of surgery to establish baseline remodeling data. A second contralateral biopsy was obtained at sacrifice. Serum osteocalcin became significantly elevated approximately 8 weeks following OX and remained elevated for the duration of the study. Histomorphometric analysis of serial transilial specimens showed that, at 6 months, OX had significantly increased the rate of bone remodeling in the ilium. Six months following OX in the dog, changes in serum biochemistry and trabecular bone remodeling in the ilium are consistent with those seen in postmenopausal women suffering from "high remodeling osteoporosis".