[The effect of circulation on the polymerizing temperature of Palacos. An experimental study (author's transl)].

In our experiments we implanted Palacos-cubes of 1 cm3 to both hind legs of 31 (bastard-)dogs. Circulation of one leg was stopped by means of a tourniquet and the temperature of the cement was registered while polymerizing. Evaluation of the temperature measurements showed results which were nearly identical on both sides. The histological findings revealed that necrosis of bone and the thickness of the fibrous tissue built at the bone-cement interface was subject only to the maximum temperature. In our opinion an increased damage caused by the interruption of blood flow during operation is not to be expected.