In this experimental study in rabbits we evaluated histologically the effect of reproducible drill holes through the distal femoral growth plate. We could demonstrate epi-metaphyseal bone-bridging as uniform reaction of the physeal cartilage in response to this traumatisation. The defects have been filled with autologous or homologous epiphyseal cartilage from distal ulnar growth plate. Autologous transplants fulfilled the demand avoiding partial bony closure of the growth plate. Homologous growth cartilage used for filling the defects underwent resorption and could not prevent the development of a bony bridge and growth disturbances.
