[Comparison of planimetric CT­based volumetry with simplified models for determining the size of intrapelvic hematomas due to pelvic fractures in emergency room diagnostics]. / Vergleich von planimetrisch CT­gestützter Volumetrie mit vereinfachten Modellen zur Größenbestimmung intrapelviner Hämatome bei Beckenfrakturen im Rahmen der Schockraumdiagnostik.

BACKGROUND: Bleeding in the pelvis can lead to a circulatory problem. The widely used whole-body computed tomography (WBCT) scan in the context of treatment in the trauma resuscitation unit (TRU) can give an idea of the source of bleeding (arterial vs. venous/osseous); however, the volume determination of an intrapelvic hematoma by volumetric planimetry cannot be used for a quick estimation of the blood loss. Simplified measurement techniques using geometric models should be used to estimate the extent of bleeding complications. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether simplified geometric models can be used to quickly and reliably determine intrapelvic hematoma volume in fractures type Tile B/C during emergency room diagnostics or whether the time-consuming planimetric method must always be used. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospectively, 42 intrapelvic hemorrhages after pelvic fractures Tile B + C (n = 8:B, 34:C) at two trauma centers in Germany were selected (66% men, 33% women; mean age 42 ± 20 years) and the CT scans obtained during the initial trauma scan were analyzed in more detail. The CT datasets of the included patients with 1-5 mm slice thickness were available for analysis. By area labelling (ROIs) of the hemorrhage areas in the individual slice images, the volume was calculated by CT volumetrically. Comparatively, volumes were calculated using simplified geometric figures (cuboid, ellipsoid, Kothari). A correction factor was determined by calculating the deviation of the volumes of the geometric models from the planimetrically determined hematoma size. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The median planimetric bleeding volume in the total collective was 1710 ml (10-7152 ml). Relevant pelvic bleeding with a total volume > 100 ml existed in 25 patients. In 42.86% the volume was overestimated in the cuboid model and in 13 cases (30.95%) there was a significant underestimation to the planimetrically measured volume. Thus, we excluded this volume model. In the models ellipsoid and measuring method according to Kothari, an approximation to the planimetrically determined volume could be achieved with a correction factor calculated via a multiple linear regression analysis. The time-saving and approximate quantification of the hematoma volume using a modified ellipsoidal calculation according to Kothari makes it possible to assess the extent of bleeding in the pelvis after trauma if there are signs of a C-problem. This measurement method, as a simple reproducible metric, could be embedded in trauma resuscitation units (TRU) in the future.

Analysis of microscopic bone properties in an osteoporotic sheep model: a combined biomechanics, FE and ToF-SIMS study.

The present study deals with the characterization of bone quality in a sheep model of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Sheep were sham operated ( n = 7), ovariectomized ( n = 6), ovariectomized and treated with deficient diet ( n = 8) or ovariectomized, treated with deficient diet and glucocorticoid injections ( n = 7). The focus of the study is on the microscopic properties at tissue level. Microscopic mechanical properties of osteoporotic bone were evaluated by a combination of biomechanical testing and mathematical modelling. Sample stiffness and strength were determined by compression tests and finite-element analysis of stress states was conducted. From this, an averaged microscopic Young's modulus at tissue level was determined. Trabecular structure as well as mineral and collagen distribution in samples of sheep vertebrae were analysed by micro-computed tomography and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. In the osteoporotic sheep model, a disturbed fibril structure in the triple treated group was observed, but bone loss only occurred in form of reduced trabecular number and thickness and cortical decline, while quality of the residual bone was preserved. The preserved bone tissue properties in the osteoporotic sheep model allowed for an estimation of bone strength which behaves similar to the human case.

[Fractures of the thumb ray]. / Frakturen des Daumenstrahls.

Fractures of the first thumb ray are common and need accurate differential treatment to restore gripping hand functions. Displaced fractures of the distal and proximal phalanx of the thumb are often treated with screws or Kirschner wires. Stable fractures can also be treated non-operatively. Fractures of the base of the first metacarpal should be differentiated into extra-articular Winterstein fractures and intra-articular Bennett or Rolando fractures. Traction forces by the abductor pollicis longus tendon regularly lead to displacement of the shaft of the first metacarpal; therefore, these fractures usually require reduction and fixation. Good functional results can be achieved by operative treatment. Fractures of the trapezium are rare. If they are displaced, operative treatment is recommended to prevent osteoarthritis of the first carpometacarpal joint.

Short-term glucocorticoid treatment causes spinal osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats.

PURPOSE: In humans, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is the most common cause of medication-induced osteoporosis. Recent clinical data suggest that glucocorticoid therapy increases the risk of vertebral fractures within a short treatment period. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating vertebral bone in a rat model of glucocorticoid-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis. METHODS: Fifty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into three groups: 1) untreated controls, 2) Sham-operated group, and 3) ovariectomized rats treated with glucocorticoid (dexamethasone) for 3 months (3M) after recovery from bilateral ovariectomy. Osteoporotic bone status was determined by means of the gold standard dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. Vertebral bodies were examined using µCT, histological analysis, mRNA expression analysis, and biomechanical compression testing. Further systemic effects were studied biochemically using serum marker analysis. RESULTS: Dexamethasone treatment showed at 3M a significantly lower bone mineral density in ovariectomized rats compared to Sham-operated control (p < 0.0001) as analyzed in vivo by DEXA. Furthermore, Z scores reached levels of -5.7 in the spine indicating sever osteoporotic bone status. Biomechanical testing of compression stability indicated a lower functional competence (p < 0.0001) in the spine of treated rats. µCT analysis showed significant reduction of bone volume density (BV/TV%; p < 0.0001), significantly enhanced trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp; p < 0.0001) with less trabecular number (Tb.N; p < 0.001) and complete loss of trabecular structures in glucocorticoid-treated ovariectomized rats. Histological analysis by osteoblast and osteoclast activities reflected a higher bone catabolism reflected by osteoclast counts by TRAP (p < 0.019) and lower bone catabolism indicated by ALP-stained area (p < 0.035).Serum analysis showed a significant increase in osteocalcin (p < 0.0001), osteopontin (p < 0.01) and insulin (p < 0.001) at 3M. Expression analysis of molecular markers in the vertebral body revealed lower expression in tenascin C in the OVX-steroid animals at 3M. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term glucocorticoid treatment of ovariectomized rats indicates according to DEXA standards a severe osteoporotic bone status in vertebral bone. Nonetheless, dysfunctional bone anabolism and enhanced bone catabolism are observed. Alterations of bone extracellular matrix proteins that correlate to inferior mechanical stability and affected microstructure were noticed and suggest further investigation. Treatment with dexamethasone was also seen to affect insulin and osteopontin levels and thus osteoblast function and maturation. This described animal model presents a recapitulation of clinically obtained data from early phase glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis observed in patients.

Adaptive diffuse domain approach for calculating mechanically induced deformation of trabecular bone.

Remodelling of trabecular bone is essentially affected by the mechanical load of the trabeculae. Mathematical modelling and simulation of the remodelling process have to include time-consuming calculations of the displacement field within the complex trabecular structure under loading. We present an adaptive diffuse domain approach for calculating the elastic bone deformation based on micro computer tomogram data of real trabecular bone structures and compared it with a conventional voxel-based finite element method. In addition to allowing for higher computational efficiency, the adaptive approach is characterised by a very smooth representation of the bone surface, which suggests that this approach would be suitable as a basis for future simulations of bone resorption and formation processes within the trabecular structure.

[Dislocation of double-threaded screws after stabilization of the odontoid process with the Knöringer technique]. / Dislozierte Doppelgewindeschrauben nach Densosteosynthese in Knöringer-Technik.

A type III fracture of the odontoid process according to Anderson-D'Alonzo in a 92-year-old patient was stabilized anteriorly with two double-threaded screws using the technique of Knöringer. Postoperatively, cranial dislocation of the screws was evident and attempts to correct the screw position failed resulting in screw proximity to the brain stem. In a second revision the screws could be removed by an anterior approach and fusion was achieved by a posterior approach. Type III fractures of the odontoid process are usually stable and should be treated conservatively. In case of instability posterior stabilization techniques should be selected. Anterior osteosynthesis of the odontoid process with double-threaded screws in osteoporotic bone carries the risk of screw dislocation.

[Simple pelvic fracture - presentation of life-threatening complications and their therapy]. / Die einfache Beckenringfraktur - kasuistische Darstellung von lebensbedrohlichen Komplikationen und deren Therapie.

The risk of life-threatening bleeding in stable pelvic-ring fractures is often underestimated. The angioembolisation is, in these cases, an important treatment option. Two case reports illustrate the risks of such haemorrhagic complications in stable pelvic-ring fractures and their immediate treatment. The fracture itself can often be treated conservatively and does not require treatment in a trauma centre. However, in the case of haemorrhage complications such treatment seems to be essential.

Quantitative 3D micro-CT imaging of human lung tissue.

PURPOSE: To assess the feasibility of micro-CT for obtaining quantitative volumetric and morphologic information of changes in soft tissue, respiratory tracts and vascularization in fibrotic, emphysematous and non-diseased human lung specimens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens from autopsy or lung explantation with lung fibrosis of UIP pattern (n = 22) or centrilobular emphysema (n = 10) were scanned by micro-CT and compared to controls (n = 22). Imaging was performed subsequent to intravascular contrast enhancement for the assessment of the vascular volume fraction. The soft tissue and air fraction were quantified after the fixation of ventilated lungs followed by tissue contrast enhancement using osmium. Aiming an artifact-free 3 D reconstruction of lung acini, synchrotron-based micro-CT scans of specimens with emphysema (n = 5) and non-diseased tissue (n = 6) was performed. Micro-CT imaging was complemented by histology for the demonstration of comparable findings. RESULTS: Quantitative analysis showed a significant increase of the soft tissue fraction, equivalent to a decrease of the air fraction in fibrotic lungs compared to controls (p < 0.001) and a significant reduction of the vascular volume fraction compared to controls (p < 0.02). Specimens with emphysema demonstrated a significant increase of the air fraction with a decrease in soft tissue compared to controls (p < 0.001). 3 D reconstructions of lung acini worked successfully in non-diseased tissue but failed in fibrotic and emphysematous lungs. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate micro-CT's technical feasibility to assess quantitative and morphological data from diseased and non-diseased human lung specimens.

Cholinergic chemosensory cells in the auditory tube.

The luminal composition of the auditory tube influences its function. The mechanisms involved in the monitoring are currently not known. For the lower respiratory epithelium, such a sentinel role is carried out by cholinergic brush cells. Here, using two different mouse strains expressing eGFP under the control of the promoter of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), we show the presence of solitary cholinergic villin-positive brush cells also in the mouse auditory tube epithelium. They express the vesicular acetylcholine (ACh) transporter and proteins of the taste transduction pathway such as α-gustducin, phospholipase C beta 2 (PLC(ß2)) and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 5 (TRPM5). Immunoreactivity for TRPM5 and PLCß2 was found regularly, whereas α-gustducin was absent in approximately 15% of the brush cells. Messenger RNA for the umami taste receptors (TasR), Tas1R1 and 3, and for the bitter receptors, Tas2R105 and Tas2R108, involved in perception of cycloheximide and denatonium were detected in the auditory tube. Using a transgenic mouse that expresses eGFP under the promotor of the nicotinic ACh receptor α3-subunit, we identified cholinoceptive nerve fibers that establish direct contacts to brush cells in the auditory tube. A subpopulation of these fibers displayed also CGRP immunoreactivity. Collectively, we show for the first time the presence of brush cells in the auditory tube. These cells are equipped with all proteins essential for sensing the composition of the luminal microenvironment and for communication of the changes to the CNS via attached sensory nerve fibers.

Mixed testicular atrophy related to atherosclerosis: first lessons from the ApoE(-/-)/ LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mouse model.

Age-related testicular changes are associated with declining spermatogenesis and testosterone levels. A relationship to atherosclerosis has never been investigated systematically. The ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mouse model, providing a remarkable homology to human atherosclerosis, is an ideal tool to investigate spermatogenetic alterations in this context. Testes (n = 10) from ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mice at the age of 80 weeks were perfused in vivo with contrast agent, harvested and scanned with micro-CT at (4.9 µm³) voxel size. Testes (n = 8) of C57/BL mice at the same age served as controls. Testis volume (mm³) and total vascular volume fraction (mm³) were quantified using micro-CT. Serum testosterone levels were determined. Testicular histology and epididymal sections were analysed for tubular structure, spermatogenetic scores and sperm count. The expression of protamine 2 as a marker for elongated spermatids, inflammation markers (CD4, F4/80) and hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1 alpha) were investigated using immunohistochemistry. ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mice exhibit diminished testis and vascular volume fraction with respect to that of controls (p < 0.001). These findings were associated with a reduction of testosterone levels (p < 0.001). Mixed atrophy was present in 41% of the seminiferous tubuli in ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mice at the age of 80 weeks. Sperm counts from the epididymis demonstrated a significant decrease in ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mice (p < 0.001). In addition, sperm specific protamine 2 expression was decreased in testicular tissue and epididymis of ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mice compared with that of control mice. Peritubular inflammatory infiltration and the expression of the hypoxia related marker was observed. Mixed testicular atrophy in ApoE(-/-)/LDL receptor(-/-) double knockout mice is linked to reduced testis volume, vascular volume fraction and low testosterone serum levels, suggesting a direct relation between atherosclerosis and disturbed spermatogenesis.

Quantitative CT imaging of the spatio-temporal distribution patterns of vasa vasorum in aortas of apoE-/-/LDL-/- double knockout mice.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the distribution of vasa vasorum (VV) relative to advanced atherosclerotic lesions (calcified, fibrotic or hemorrhaged) along the aortic wall of apoE-/-/LDL-/- mice at the age of 25 and 80 weeks using high-resolution nano-CT. METHODS: Aortas from male apoE-/-/LDL-/- mice at the age of 25 weeks (n=4) and 80 weeks (n=7) were infused in situ with contrast agent and harvested for scanning with nano-CT. The spatial distribution of vasa vasorum [number and area/cross-section (mm2)] was compared to aortic luminal cross-sectional area and plaque cross-sectional area in the ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending aorta. Results were complemented with co-localized histology. RESULTS: The number and total luminal cross-sectional area of VV showed a significant decrease in the ascending aorta and aortic arch from 25 to 80 weeks but not in the descending aorta. The number and cross-sectional area of VV showed significant local differences depending on whether it was near a fibrotic, and hemorrhaged or calcified plaque in animals at the age of 80 weeks. Area of VV progressively increased along the aorta from least in the ascending aorta

Quantitative 3D micro-CT imaging of the human feto-placental vasculature in intrauterine growth restriction.

OBJECTIVE: Placental vascular development matches fetal growth and development. Quantification of the feto-placental vasculature in placentas from pregnancies is complicated by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) revealed confounding results. Therefore, the feto-placental vascular volume in IUGR placentas was assessed by 3D micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). METHODS AND RESULTS: Placental probes from IUGR (n=24) and healthy control placentas (n=40) were perfused in situ with Microfil or BaSO(4) and randomly chosen samples were scanned by micro-CT. Using 3D images, we quantitated the feto-placental vascular volume fraction (VVF). A subanalysis was performed at three different levels, reaching from the chorionic plate artery (level A), to intermediate arteries (level B) and capillary system (level C). Results were complemented by histology. The significance of differences in vascular volume measurements was tested with analysis of variance [ANOVA]. RESULTS: Microfil perfused placentas showed a total vascular volume fraction of 20.5+/-0.9% in healthy controls. In contrast, the VVF decreased to 7.9+/-0.9% (p<0.001) in IUGR placentas. Significant differences were found between Microfil and BaSO(4) perfused placentas in the vascular volume fraction using micro-CT and histology. Micro-CT demonstrated localized concentric luminal encroachments in the intermediate arteries in placentas complicated by IUGR. CONCLUSION: Micro-CT imaging is feasible for quantitative analysis of the feto-placental vascular tree in healthy controls and pregnancies complicated by IUGR.

[Pseudoaneurysm - a rare complication after insertion of a distal locking bolt of an intramedullary femur nail]. / Das Aneurysma spurium - eine seltene Komplikation nach distaler Verriegelung eines Femurmarknagels.

A pseudoaneurysm is caused by an extravasal hematoma after vessel injury. Persistent blood supply via the afferent artery can lead to aneurysm growth with potential rupture of the lesion. We present a case of a 27-year-old man who developed three independent pseudoaneurysms after insertion of percutaneous distal locking bolts for static locking of an intramedullary femur nail. Color-coded Doppler sonography and intraarterial subtraction angiography were used to detect the lesion. Successful treatment consisted of endovascular embolization (coiling) with injection of a platinum coil into the aneurysm's supplying vessel. Pseudoaneurysm after fracture or fracture fixation represents a rare complication, but the risk of acute bleeding by pseudoaneurysm rupture should not be neglected.

Diagnostic value of ex-vivo three-dimensional micro-computed tomography imaging of primary nonhematopoietic human bone tumors: osteosarcoma versus chondrosarcoma.

BACKGROUND: Osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma are the most common nonhematopoietic primary malignancies of bone. However, unusual radiographic appearances can lead to delay in diagnosis and confusion with benign diseases. PURPOSE: To evaluate the feasibility of micro-computed tomography (CT) for the analysis of primary, nonhematopoietic human bone tumors ex vivo. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Samples from 12 human bone specimens (osteosarcoma, n=6; chondrosarcoma, n=6) obtained for diagnostic purposes were scanned using industrial X-ray film without amplifier foil and scanned with micro-CT (7- and 12-microm-cubic voxels). Trabecular bone CT "density" and tumor matrix CT "density" were determined, and results were compared with those obtained from a detailed conventional histopathologic analysis of corresponding cross-sections. The significance of differences in grayscale measurements was tested with analysis of variance. RESULTS: Micro-CT provided quantitative information on bone morphology equivalent to histopathological analysis. We established grayscale measurements by which tumor matrices of chondrosarcoma and osteosarcoma could be radiographically categorized following histological classifications (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Micro-CT is feasible for the analysis and differentiation of human osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma.

Quantification of in-stent restenosis parameters in rabbits by Micro-CT.

PURPOSE: The well-defined model of angioplasty and stent implantation in the rabbit aorta is useful in experimental studies of restenosis. This study was performed to evaluate the feasibility of Micro-CT for quantification of in-stent restenosis in a rabbit aortic in-stent-restenosis model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: To induce in-stent restenosis seven female New Zealand rabbits underwent balloon dilation and denudation prior to stenting the abdominal aorta. After six weeks on atherogenic diet, animals were killed and the aorta was perfused with contrast agent. Micro-CT morphometric analysis of balloon and stent injured arteries obtained by 700 transverse sections (voxel size 10 microm) was compared to conventional histological analysis. RESULTS: Intimal hyperplasia was present in stented and balloon injured arteries with a moderate intimal area assessed by Micro-CT and conventional histology (3.91 +/- 0.5 mm(2) vs. 4.18 +/- 0.42; r = 0.9). High significant correlations between Micro-CT image analysis and conventional histomorphometry were obtained for lesion size, size of media, size of lumen and stent area (r = 0.84 to 0.96). CONCLUSION: Micro-CT is feasible for quantitative information about restenosis following balloon angioplasty and stent implantation and has the potential to become a standard technique in many laboratories which will augment serial histology as the reference method for ex-vivo studies of restenosis.

Atherosclerosis: humoral and cellular factors of inflammation.

In the past decade, atherosclerosis has come to be recognized as active and inflammatory rather than simply a passive process of lipid infiltration or a reparative process after endothelial injury. In general, atherosclerosis can be considered as an intramural chronic inflammation resulting from interactions between modified lipoproteins, monocyte-derived macrophages, lymphocytes, and the normal cellular elements of the arterial wall. The process of inflammation occurs in response to functional and structural injury through a variety of known and unknown stimuli and is active over years and decades. Here, we review recent experimental and human studies of inflammatory mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

[Micro-computed tomography of the vasculature in parenchymal organs and lung alveoli]. / Mikro-Computertomographie von Blutgefässen parenchymatöser Organe und von Lungenalveolen.

Micro-CT has become a powerful technique in non-destructive 3D imaging and morphometric analysis. First results were limited to the investigation of osteoporosis in cancellous bone. But the availability of systems with almost microscopic resolution and sufficient soft tissue contrast has opened up entirely new applications for laboratory investigation of blood vessels and soft tissues. This article gives an overview of micro-CT technology and the potential of three-dimensional imaging of the vessel wall and soft-tissue architecture imaging in different organs using different contrast perfusion and staining techniques. Micro-CT provides quantitative information on human plaque morphology equivalent to histomorphometric analysis. Based on differences in grey-scale attenuations, micro-CT also correctly identifies atherosclerotic lesions that are histologically classified as fibrous plaques, calcified lesions, fibroatheroma, and lipid rich lesions. Micro-CT is a promising method to visualize the architecture of the renal vasculature and, importantly, to separate cortex and medulla for the visualization of glomeruli and their afferent and efferent arterioles. Micro-CT can determine the vascular surface in a defined placental volume. Combining of micro-CT data and total placental volume enables an estimation of the approximate surface of the placental vasculature. The diameter of opacified vessels in the investigated samples ranged from 2 mm (chorion plate artery) to 14 micro m (smallest vessel diameter, terminal loop). Recognizing that lung parenchyma can only be visualized if the alveoli are completely expanded and the contrast of the thin alveolar walls is enhanced, we tested two preparation methods: (1) fixation of lung tissue with formalin vapour and staining with silver nitrate, and (2) intravenous injection of a barium sulfate-gelatine-thymol mixture in vivo in the anesthetized animal. We evaluated the ability of this mixture to enter the pulmonary microcirculation and the technical feasibility of micro-CT to assess lung micro-architecture.

[Cardio-pulmonary vascular system. Three-dimensional quantitative evaluation by microcomputed tomography]. / Kardiopulmonales Gefässsystem. Dreidimensionale quantitative Evaluation mit der Mikrocomputertomographie.

In recent years microcomputed tomography (microCT) has become more and more important in basic research. Now commercial microCT scanners are available. Thus, it is very likely that this new, accurate and promising method for three-dimensional and non-destructive quantitative evaluation of intact tissues including vessels will be applied more frequently. The review provides a survey of the basic technology of microCT and its current use for high resolution three-dimensional morphometric and functional analysis within the cardio-pulmonary vascular system.

Analysis of the fetal placental vascular tree by X-ray micro-computed tomography.

The current understanding of the placental vascular tree largely derives from time-consuming morphometric analyses performed by conventional histology, electron microscopy of corrosion casts and three-dimensional reconstructions based on physical tissue sections. In the present study, we demonstrate for the first time that micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) emerges as a new, non-destructive and fast tool for imaging and quantifying fetoplacental vasculature. Term placentae (n=5) were perfused with contrast agent consisting of barium-sulfate, gelatine and thymol shortly after Caesarean-section-delivery. Samples (1 cm(3)) from eight different regions of the placenta were subsequently scanned in a micro-CT. Using tomographic reconstruction algorithms, three dimensional images were obtained by micro-CT allowing total stereoscopic visualization and continuous quantitative analysis of the vascular structure of the investigated samples. These samples were compared regarding vascular surface (VS) and vascular density (vascular volume fraction, TCVF). Quantitative assessment showed an average vascular density of 16 per cent (SD+/-0.4) and a vascular surface of 475 mm(2)(SD+/-8) per total tissue volume (including intervillous space) of 125 mm(3). Micro-CT image-analysis showed no significant differences in the fetal vascularization among term placentae. Micro-CT imaging is feasible for imaging and analysis of the villous vascular tree, allows further morphologic studies and immunohistochemistry of the placental specimens and may emerge as an additional tool in the investigation of the physiology and pathophysiology of the placental vasculature.