A Study of Vascular Contribution to the Proximal End of the Femur in Fetus and Neonates

Abstract

Perfusion method was used in a study of the blood supply of the proximal end of the femur in 52 cadaver specimens taken from the induced abortions and newborn deaths, with age ranging from the 16th fetal week to full term. X-ray films were taken in 45 cadavers: and sections prepared from all the specimens. They were divided into 4 groups for compari-son and analysis. The authors conclude that: 1. epiphyseal arteries are the main blood supply to the femoral head in fetus and neonates, and 2. the formation of capillary loops between metaphysis and the base of hypertrophic layer of the growth-plate is completed by the 16th fetal week. An observation on the shape and structure of the cartilage canals was carried out in the fetus and neonates, The origins of the blood vessels and streaks within the epip-hyseal plate and the theory of the blood barrier between epiphysis and metaphysis were discussed. Besides, clinical and pathological signif-icance of the cartilage canals is also discussed.