HISTOLOGICAL CHANGES IN EXPERIMENTALLY DISPLACED UPPER FEMORAL EPIPHYSES IN RABBITS

Abstract

An experimental method is described which permits observations on the early stages of repair after acute displacement of the upper femoral epiphysis. Because the epiphysis is intra-articular, displacement brings about avascular necrosis which is slowly repaired by ingrowth of callus and blood vessels from the stump of the neck. As the bulk of the epiphysial plate remainsattached to the epiphysis, it acts as a barrier to successful revascularisation. Deliberate removal of the epiphysial cartilage allows earlier revascularisation. It is suggested that in clinical cases reduction be done through the epiphysial plate rather than through the neck, and that it be accompanied by curettage of the remaining part of the epiphysial plate from the under surface of the head.