Serial FIB/SEM imaging for quantitative 3D assessment of the osteocyte lacuno-canalicular network

Up to now, a quantitative three-dimensional (3D) assessment of the lacuno-canalicular network (LCN) within bone has not been achieved in a comprehensive way and the LCN has mostly been investigated using two-dimensional imaging methods only. First attempts for the 3D assessment of the osteocytes and their cell processes have been reported using different imaging techniques. Nevertheless, various experimental limitations allowed for assessment of...