Surgical induction model of femoral defect in Wistar rats for bone repair histology

The creation of bone lesions using a well-established surgical technique is essential for obtaining histological images in experimental models that aim to study the pathophysiology of bone repair. In this study, we report the steps of a surgical method to induce bone defects in Wistar rats, providing a basis for experimental studies requiring precision in these lesions, especially for future experimental tests and subsequent histological analysis. The animal model remains an important alternative for investigating the inflammatory process and bone regeneration. The model consists of creating experimental, non-critical surgical bone defects in the femurs of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus, 90 days old, weighing between 250-300 g) using a 2-mm spherical drill and a low-speed motor. The present report includes reproducible information on the selection of the animals and the materials needed to perform anesthesia and surgery to induce bone defects. It also provides details on post-surgical care, sample collection, and preparation of samples for histological processing. The steps presented here can significantly increase the accuracy of lesion creation and allow for more precise results in the analysis of bone architecture and repair.