Visualization of Vascular Channels in the Mandibular Cortex

Several methods to visualize the vascular pattern of the mandibular cortex were tested. The most suitable method for young jaws proved to be one in which the organic material was partially removed to increase access to the vascular channels. The vessels were vacuum infiltrated with an India ink solution, and the jaws were then decalcified and cleared in glycerin. This resulted in completely transparent flexible cortical plates showing a sharp outline of the vascular pattern. The flexibility of the plates also improved the morphological study of the emergence of blood capillaries at the cortical surface in relation to bone remodeling.