Histology and research at the hard tissue–implant interface using Technovit 9100 New embedding technique

Calcified tissues, like bones and teeth, are among the most challenging tissues for histological research. However, especially with respect to dental or orthopaedic research, powerful histological techniques are necessary to study pathological conditions or traumatic injuries, and to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of regeneration processes and functional recovery. The situation is even more complicated in orthopaedic research because here metallic implants or other devices made of various materials are often present, and the hard tissue–implant interface is of crucial interest in both biocompatibility and functional recovery research. After the cutting–grinding technique, embedding in technical resins is the most promising approach. Here we describe an optimized and standardized embedding and cutting technique using Technovit 9100 New. Using this technique, we are able to perform enzyme histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, a great variety of classical histological stains and even in situ hybridization.