Viability and metabolism of cartilage transplanted to physeal regions.

Longitudinal bone growth is the ultimate characteristic clinically desired from the physis. Measuring relatively short-term parameters in comparison with growth may help facilitate investigation of physeal reconstruction. We monitored the viability and metabolism of cartilage transplanted to physeal regions in rabbits. In addition to measuring growth, we performed histochemistry and autoradiographic studies. The results indicated that cartilage transplanted in an avascular fashion could remain viable, synthesize proteoglycan, and be associated with growth (although less than normal) relative to controls. Such measurements may be of benefit in pursuing the goal of clinical physeal reconstruction.