We reviewed the results of 277 intertrochanteric valgus-extension osteotomies performed between 1973 and 1975 for primary or secondary osteoarthritis. The average age of the patients was 51 years and follow-up varied from 11 to 15 years. At the latest evaluation 67% of the hips were good or excellent on the Merle D'Aubigne scale. Better results were obtained in patients under 40 years of age with unilateral involvement and a mechanical (secondary) aetiology. An elliptical femoral head, minimal subluxation and an adequate pre-operative range of motion were also favourable. There was radiographic evidence of regression of the arthritic changes in 39% of the hips at final review. Valgus-extension osteotomy is effective for secondary osteoarthritis of the hip in selected younger patients, but not for those with primary hip disease or a poor range of movement.
We have reviewed the results of 106 intertrochanteric osteotomies performed for osteonecrosis of the femoral head. The average age at operation was 47.5 years. At two years from operation 71% of the hips had a clinically satisfactory result and at final follow-up, an average of 8.2 years after operation, 58% continued to have excellent or good rating. Twenty-four hips had needed total replacement or arthrodesis because of pain. Patients aged less than 55 did better than those operated on after that age, and hips with an idiopathic or post-traumatic aetiology did considerably better than alcohol-induced or steroid-induced cases. In view of these findings we believe that in the younger adult, in the absence of metabolic bone disease or advanced joint destruction, intertrochanteric osteotomy should be considered for the treatment of osteonecrosis.
The blood supply of the vertebral column of the rabbit has been studied. A description of the embryological development of the blood supply is followed by a description of the blood vessels supplying the adult vertebra.
The main findings in this experimental work on rats fed on lathyrus odoratus (sweet-pea) meal are as follows: 1. Growth is retarded. 2. The growth plate is disorganised and normal ossification at the metaphysis is interfered with. 3. The small blood vessels are seriously affected and probably contribute quite largely to the disorganisation and lack of calcification. 4. Alkaline phosphatase activity is increased. 5. Raising of the periosteum and laying down of new bone result in exostoses. The possible underlying etiology and the role of cement substance, endocrine factors and the blood vessels are discussed.
