The effect of surgery on the iliac apophysis: an experimental study

The effect of surgery on the subsequent growth of the iliac apophysis was studied in 30 immature New Zealand White rabbits. Groups of animals were subjected to splitting of the iliac apophysis or excision of part of or the whole apophysis. These animals were compared to a group with a sham operation. Results showed that splitting with subsequent resuturing of the iliac apophysis resulted in normal growth in height but increased growth in width and thickness of the iliac bone. Excision of one third of the iliac apophysis did not interfere with subsequent growth, but excision of two thirds or more of the iliac apophysis resulted in retarded growth of the iliac bone. These experimental studies suggest that the iliac apophysis can be safely split in the surgical approach to a child's hip. Also one third of the iliac apophysis can be safely sacrificed for use as a physeal graft or for chondrocyte cultures.