Experimental acetabular dysplasia associated with a lesion of iliopubic limb of the triradiate cartilage.

An experimental lesion was created in the iliopubic limb of the triradiate cartilage in young Wistar rats with the object of studying the role of this structure in the development of hip joint disorders. Roentgenographic, functional, morphologic, and morphometric results were evaluated during the following 12 weeks. Acetabular dysplasia, dislocation, or subluxation of the hip, deformities of the acetabulum and the femoral head, and bending and hypoplasia of the innominate bone were the most significant findings. It is concluded that a lesion of the iliopubic limb of the triradiate cartilage may be a cause of severe hip joint disorders such as acetabular dysplasia, subluxation, and dislocation.