[An improved liquid nitrogen freezing method for establishing canine models of femoral head necrosis].

OBJECTIVE

To establish an canine model of femoral head osteonecrosis using an improved liquid nitrogen freezing method.

METHODS

Sixteen adult canines were divided into 4 groups at random and subjected to instant freezing of the unilateral femoral head with liquid nitrogen. The dogs were observed at 2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks after the operation for radiographic, gross and pathological changes of the femoral head.

RESULTS

Significant radiographic, gross and pathological changes occurred in the femoral head after the freezing.

CONCLUSION

Improved liquid nitrogen freezing of the femoral head provides a simple and convenient method for establishing animal models of femoral head osteonecrosis.