Abstract
1. Fifteen patients who had had osteomyelitis of the lower femur or upper tibia during infancy have been studied. The cases of four patients showing particular features of the disease are presented in detail and the remainder are summarised.
2. It is suggested that damage to the epiphysis may be due to an abscess, or to ischaemia following occlusion of the blood supply. In the latter instance the prognosis may be better.
3. In the early stages the radiographic appearances may be deceptive, suggesting that damage to the epiphysis is irreparable.
4. Significant recovery of the epiphysis may occur in some patients after a delay of several years. This, together with the often good function which is preserved at the joint, should deter the surgeon from early destructive operation on the limb.
5. Deformity, which was present to some extent in all cases, appeared early and was not well controlled by conservative treatment. Operations were performed in twelve patients.
6. Shortening of the limb occurred in all patients and in some it was severe.
