[Mechanical stress of osteophytes in the arthritic femur head]

Osteophytes of forty femoral heads with degenerative arthritis (dissecting room material) are investigated histologically and roentgenologically. The analysis of the covering cartilage and the cancellous bone structure supports the view that osteophytes are subject to pressing forces. It is discussed that osteophytes have an influence of the degree of stress in the joint. There are no morphological indications of a traction force acting upon the osteophytes.