The effect of partial periosteal division on growth of the long bones. An experimental study in rabbits.

The mode of action of the periosteum in the growth of the long bones was investigated by comparing the activity of the growth plate after hemicircumferential and longitudinal periosteal incisions. Twenty-eight rabbits were divided into three groups. A longitudinal periosteum incision was made on the medial upper tibia in rabbits of Group A, and a hemicircumferential periosteum incision was made in Group B. An incision of the skin and superficial tissue only, similar to the skin incision of Groups A and B, was performed on rabbits in Group C. Certain differences in the development of the right tibia compared to the control side were observed in rabbits of Group B: (1) valgus deformity, 5 degrees-10 degrees; (2) overgrowth, 1-2 mm; (3) an S-shaped tibia deformity. The dynamics of the deformity support the mechanical theory because the direction of periosteum division was an important factor in the appearance of growth disturbances.