An attempt has been made to delineate the immediate biochemical modifications which precede extremity death by analysis of glucose, adenosine triphosphate, phosphocreatine, lactate, and glycogen in certain of its tissues. Epiphyseal cartilage demonstrates considerable resistance to devitalization preserving apparent biochemical integrity beyond two hours. Skeletal muscle responds in a somewhat more active fashion. In general, epiphyseal cartilage and muscle demonstrate considerable tolerance to nutritional deprivation.
Differences between epiphyseal cartilage and skeletal muscle in their biochemical response to devitalization are described.