Osteogenesis in vascularized periosteum. Interactions with underlying bone.

This study is the first in a series of experiments undertaken to obtain basic information regarding the behavior of vascularized periosteum. Ten adult dogs were used and in each animal costal periosteum was alternatively placed in contact with normal (but previously detached) rib, and rib segments devitalized by autoclaving, decorticated, and isolated by means of a Silastic wrap. Specimens were harvested at 10, 20, 40, and 70 days and were evaluated grossly, histopathologically, and by tetracycline hydrochloride fluorescence studies. Periosteum in contact with intact bone became osteogenic within 20 days. Periosteum in contact with autoclaved and decorticated bone also became osteogenic but at a slower rate. Isolated periosteum failed to produce bone. These findings indicate that osteogenesis in transferred periosteum depends not only on maintenance of its vascular supply but also on its proximity to viable bone and its ability to interact with the recipient surface.