Implant histology 109

the fibrous tissue membrane separating the bone from the implant and thereby continued to receive their nourishment from this area.

MICROSCOPIC DESCRIPTION: The specimen consists of a half-circle of compact bone with an associated smaller fragment [Fig. 4-54]. The con-figuration and size of bone is consistent with an area approximating the implant screw. The

outer aspect shows surface fragmentation and a narrow zone of basophilia. Lacunae in this area are devoid of osteocytes [Fig. 4-55]. The inner aspect of the specimen shows some foci of smaller chips of bone and pools of surgical hemorrhage [Fig. 4-56]. The bone along the inner aspect nearest the implant appears vital throughout [Fig. 4-57], showing numerous lacunae filled with osteocytes [Fig. 4-58]. The midportion of the bone dem-

Lacunae devoid of osteocytes

Fig. 4-55. A, The outer aspect of the bone has some empty lacunae, while the bone nearest the implant site appears vital. B, Another area of the same bone section, slightly enlarged. X, Implant site.