[Distraction epiphyseolysis. An experimental study for bone lengthening. Part I (author's transl)]

Distraction epiphyseolysis is an operation for bone lengthening in children and adolescent which is often performed in Russia. Our experimental examination in rabbits has shown a lot of problems with this method. With distraction epiphyseolysis it is possible to get a primary lengthening of bone and a soon consolidation of the distraction-cleft. During further growth this primary lengthening is going lost. After the end of growth there was no significant difference between operated and non operated bone. The cause of the growth-disturbance is discussed in a further publication guided by histological findings.