Effects of vascular occlusion on the femoral head in growing rabbits

Temporary vascular occlusion of the femoral head in 6-week-old rabbits was produced by a closed means in a hip spica; the hips were maintained for 24 h in the position of flexion, abduction and internal rotation. All animals developed necrosis of the capital femoral epiphysis, best seen histologically at 2 weeks, and this subsequently recovered. Despite marked histological changes only one hip developed radiographic changes.