Changes in the Vascular Supply to Rat Growth Cartilage during Radiation Injury and Repair

Abstract

The effects of x-irradiation on the epiphyseal blood supply to the growth cartilage are described over a period up to 12 weeks after irradiation. 900 rads had very little effect on the blood supply. 1800 rads reduced the supply, but a substantial fraction of vessels remained intact throughout the experimental period. Radiation effects on the metaphyseal vessels are also described.