Epiphysiodesis - Fusion of Growth Plate

There is no guarantee that the growth of the bones of our limbs will occur evenly, and this uncertainty sometimes leads to limb length discrepancy. This condition is difficult to treat in children when compared to adults due to their continuous growth. Still, methods have been devised to correct the discrepancy in children.

Epiphysiodesis is the surgical technique used to clear the difference between limbs and bring them to equal length. Limb length discrepancy can occur in legs and arms, but more attention is paid to leg length discrepancy considering its painful symptoms. In epiphysiodesis, the fusion of the growth plate is done to restrict bone growth and the development of any additional bone. The surgery is carried out with the use of certain orthopedic implants and instruments.

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Before we move ahead, let us have a brief look at what growth plates are.

Growth Plates

located near the ends of the thigh, shin, upper arm, and forearm bones, growth plates are responsible for the growth in children. It is a thin cartilage layer that is fixed at the ends of the bone.

What is Epiphysiodesis?

Also known as growth plate fusion, epiphysiodesis is a surgical procedure that is carried out for the surgical destruction of growth plates. This minimally invasive surgery either stops or slows down the bone growth in children. This could be achieved permanently or temporarily depending upon the condition.

Who is the Best Candidate for Growth Plate Fusion?

Epiphysiodesis or growth plate fusion is the option to correct limb length discrepancy in children. This surgery is done when the difference between the length of the limb will be around 2 and 6 centimeters at maturity. Epiphysiodesis is done on a healthy and long leg.

It is seen that the growth of the bone in the legs occurs near the knee the most thus, the growth plates of thigh or shin bones are most commonly fused. This surgery results in the reduction or elimination of the growth of the long/healthy leg while allowing the shorter one to grow and catch the length of the longer one. For limb shortening surgery, orthopedic implants like Rail Fixators (LRS), Ilizarov Ring Type External Fixators, and Dynamic External Fixators are used.

When should Growth Plate Fusion be Done?

Now, this is something most important. The timing of epiphysiodesis holds the key to avoid any after-surgery complications and achieve better results. For this, the doctor closely examines what will be the discrepancy at the age of maturity by performing certain tests. This will help them decide when will be the best time to stop or reduce bone growth by doing growth fusion. In most cases, the doctor may also examine the child with limb length discrepancy periodically at around 6 to 12 months using imaging tests like X-ray or CT scan.

Epiphysiodesis may be done temporarily or permanently depending upon the condition of the child. After 2-3 weeks of surgery, the patient will be able to perform normal activities. But the patient is suggested to visit the doctor around 2 weeks after surgery and every 4 months after that as per the indication. The doctor will monitor the growth of both legs and examine the range of motion of the knee for any abnormalities or complications.

In this article, we provide information about Epiphysiodesis - Fusion of Growth Plate. The author has many years of writing experience in various categories like health, Orthopedic Implants, shopping, and business, etc.