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The development of the upper end of the femur, with special reference to its internal architecture
Insights
The study reveals how the femur
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Radiology
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- The internal architecture of the proximal femur, specifically trabecular bone, is crucial for hip joint stability and function.
- Understanding the developmental changes in femoral trabeculae is essential for diagnosing and managing pediatric hip conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental progression of the upper femur's internal architecture, focusing on trabecular patterns.
- To correlate radiographic findings with anatomical observations in pediatric hip development.
Main Methods:
- Radiographic analysis of hip joints in 191 children.
- Examination of cadaver specimens from young subjects.
- Detailed observation of internal bone architecture and trabecular arrangement.
Main Results:
- Linear trabeculae are present at birth but not visible radiographically.
- Trabeculae appear randomly oriented on radiographs during the first year.
- Medial and lateral trabeculae visible on radiographs between 12-24 months.
- Well-established trabecular pattern by age five; secondary trabeculae visible in adolescence.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the typical developmental timeline of femoral trabecular patterns.
- Findings provide a baseline for interpreting radiographic abnormalities in pediatric hip disease.
- Knowledge of normal development aids in understanding conditions affecting the hip and upper femur.
Abstract:
The development of the upper end of the femur was determined from radiographic analysis of the hips in 191 children and a small series of cadaver specimens from young subjects, with special attention directed to the internal architecture. At birth, linearly arranged trabeculae are present but not visible on conventional radiographs. During the latter part of the first year, trabeculae are seen on conventional studies in an apparently random orientation. Although the principal medial and lateral groups of trabeculae can be shown on coronal slab sections before the end of the first year, they cannot usually be seen on conventional radiographs until 12 to 24 months. The trabecular pattern is well established by the fifth year, although the secondary lateral and linearly oriented trochanteric trabeculae are not easily seen before adolescence. The relevance of these findings in relation to diseases of the hip and upper femur is examined.