[Histonet] acid decalcification

Caroline Stott caroline.stott <@t> anatomy.otago.ac.nz
Tue Mar 2 13:54:58 CST 2004


Hi Myriam

We generally use Formic acid for decalcifying.  I agree that you should not 
use any fixative as it will slow the process down.  You will need to check 
the acid solution every few days for the amount of mineral left in the 
tissue.  Regular changes of acid solution are needed as the solution 
becomes saturated.  Once there is no mineral left in the tissue we wash in 
running water for several hours to remove the acid.  Some tissues however 
may require a neutralising step before processing.
Hope that helps.
Caroline



Hello everyone
I would like to decalcify teeh in sodium formiate and acid formique
but do you think if i should add a fixative to my solution, like 
glutaraldéhye or formaline or paraformaldéhyde, if you did use it,  which 
purcentage did you use please ?
After decalcification do you rinse your samples (bones or teeth) in a 
special solution before dehydrating ?
Thank you very much in advance
Myriam
Natural Implant
et

Caroline Stott

Histology Service Unit
Medical School
University of Otago
Dunedin
(03) 479 7152 





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