[Reactive-destructive changes in the nervous elements of the capsule of the hip joint in coxarthrosis].

Specimens of the hip joint capsule were obtained during surgical treatment in 56 patients suffering from different kinds and stages of coxarthrosis. Neuronal elements of the capsule were stated to undergo reactive-destructive changes. Demyelinization of the capsule nerve fibers seems to be one of the causes producing painful sensation in the affected joint at coxarthrosis. Displastic and idiopathic coxarthrosis produces the destruction of less degree with preservation of the capsule nerves for a longer period; traumatic coxarthrosis with an aseptic necrosis of the femoral head is followed by a more profound destruction and the development of the disease is of shorter duration.