The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of establishing dog models of lunatomalacia through liquid nitrogen freezing. Twelve adult crossbred dogs were divided into three groups. Unilateral lunates were peeled off the parenchyma and frozen to result in avascular necrosis. They were observed dynamically through X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Furthermore, gross and histomorphological observations of samples were performed. Disseminated punctate hyperintense images and abnormal manifestations were detected, respectively. At 12 weeks after surgery, uneven bone density of the lunate and a flattened lunate of irregular shape were detected. A large area of irregular hypointense foci and hyperintensity was observed. Gross sample observation revealed a large area of dead bone. A decrease in the density of the trabecular bones and several vacant bone lacunas were visible. Liquid nitrogen freezing is a successful and reliable method for preparing animal models of lunatomalacia.
Keywords: animal models; liquid nitrogen freezing; lunate; lunatomalacia.