Trabecular Stress Fractures

This study was conducted to evaluate the theory that increased rigidity in the subchondral cancellous bone and trabecular stress fractures are responsible for the development of osteoarthritis. Histological sections of the entire femoral head were examined in 80 normals, 50 cases with early degenerative changes, and 50 cases with advanced osteoarthritis. It was found that trabecular stress fractures occur normally and show no greater incidence in early osteoarthritis. Increase in thickness of the trabeculae not associated with fractures is seen, but only after considerable cartilage disruption. It is concluded that trabecular stress fractures are not of importance in the development of osteoarthritis.