Effects of sodium fluoride on tibial morphology in ovariectomized rats by bone histomorphometry

Objective To investigate the response of trabecula of tibia in ovariectomized(OVX) rats to sodium fluoride (NaF). Methods The OVX rats were used as model for osteoporosis. Twenty four female Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups. Namely, 16 OVX rats with and without NaF treated group and control group. All rats were sacrificed after being fed with NaF for 3 months. The effect of NaF on bone microarchitecture and dynamics were studied by bone histomorphometry. Results Trabecula bone volume, mean trabecula width, density and cortical thickness were remarkably reduced in OVX group( P 0 05) while tetracycline labeled surfaces, osteoid surfaces and bone formation rate were increased compared with those in control group. In NaF treated group, the tetracycline labeled surfaces and bone formation rate were increased while mineral apposition rate and osteoid maturation period were decreased compared with those in control group ( P 0 05). Conclusions Trabecula bone volume and mean trabecula width can be increased by administration of NaF for 3 months in OVX rats. It seems that the effects are significant in epiphysis.