Abstract
Introduction: The use of a trans-physeal, trans-articular suture anchor across a joint as a means of internal stabilisation has not previously been described. This study assesses the damage caused by the procedure to the immature porcine hip.
Methods: Six twelve week old pigs underwent unilateral hip surgery. Anteroposterior pelvic radiographs were taken preoperatively and six weeks post-operatively. The acetabular index and diameter of the femoral head ossific nucleus of both hips were measured and compared. Specimens were analysed macroscopically for femoral head diameter, acetabular dimensions and for evidence of gross chondrolysis. Histological analysis was performed to assess the presence of articular chondrolysis and proximal femoral physeal arrest.
Results: In four out of six specimens the rate of change of the acetabular index slowed as compared to the unoperated side, though none worsened. The diameter of the femoral ossific nucleus continued to increase in size at a similar rate to the unoperated side on radiological examination. Similar findings were seen with the macroscopic analysis. Gross and histological analysis of the articular cartilage showed only local areas of chondrolysis, related to the drilling. Metaphyseal growth at the proximal femoral physis was unaffected by the procedure.
Discussion: The use of a trans-articular suture-anchor across the hip appears to cause marginal retardation of acetabular development in the normal hip. The trans-physeal approach to the hip does not appear to affect proximal femoral physeal or epiphyseal growth in the short-term, and the presence of a bioabsorbable suture within the joint did not result in chondrolysis.
For information please contact BSCOS at the Royal College of Surgeons, 35 – 43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
