The Development of Epiphyseal Vessels in Femoral Head of White Rabbit

We reported the development of epiphyseal vessels in the femoral head of white rabbits. We prepared specimens for microangiography by modified Spalteholz technique and H. E. or Safranin-O staining for microscopic observation. The characteristic structure of epiphyseal vessels was found to be formed on the 4th week after birth and completed by 2 months after birth. With maturing of epiphyseal vessels, the thickness of the epiphyseal growth plate decreased. Tuft formations are characteristic for the ends of epiphyseal vessels and they have been connected one another for 1.5 months from birth. With maturing of epiphyseal vessels, however, the connections of tuft formation disappeared.