[Experimental traumatic epiphysiolysis (author's transl)].

Two experimental series of epiphysiolysis, with and without displacement, were performed on 100 young rabbits in each group. The histological site of the epiphysiolysis was demonstrated, and the healing process studied. The basic healing process is induced by the vascular metaphyseal penetration of the separation line, as shown in the epiphysiolysis without displacement. A compensative mechanism appears in the series of epiphysiolysis with displacement, consisting of an epiphyseal vascular penetration of the epiphyseal plate, performing then the embryonal anatomical pattern. The vascular epiphyseal channels close progressively after they reach the metaphyseal vessel. If they do not join the metaphyseal vessels quickly enough, or in sufficient number, they are invaded by osteoblastic cells and fibrous or bony bridges will be created through the epiphyseal plate. These bridges are responsible for growth retardation, axial deviation and even early closure of the epiphyseal plate.