The Effect of Ligation of the Canine Nutrient Artery on Intramedullary Pressure

The nutrient arteries of eleven tibiae and eight humeri were ligated. In every instance there was an immediate and usually a large decrease in intramedullary pressure. In nine bones the pressure rose to preocclusion levels within less than three hours. In an additional eight the pressure returned to normal within from four to twenty-two days. In only two instances did the postligation pressure not recover during the period of observation (sixteen to twenty-five days). Post mortem injection of the subclavian or femoral artery resulted in filling of the nutrient arterial system via collateral channels in all specimens.