Epiphysiodesis

Epiphysiodesis is a surgical procedure performed to halt the growth of one or more of the long bones in the body. This procedure is typically performed in children or adolescents who have a significant discrepancy in the length of their limbs due to conditions such as congenital anomalies, infections, tumors, and trauma. The goal of epiphysiodesis is to correct the discrepancy by halting the growth of the longer limb, allowing the shorter limb to catch up in growth.

Procedure

Epiphysiodesis involves the surgical closure of the growth plate (epiphysis) in a long bone. The surgeon makes a small incision over the growth plate and removes a small wedge of bone. The remaining bone is then reshaped and repositioned to close the growth plate. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.

Indications

Epiphysiodesis is indicated for children or adolescents who have a significant discrepancy in the length of their limbs due to conditions such as:

• Congenital anomalies
• Infections
• Tumors
• Trauma

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with epiphysiodesis. These may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Failure of the bone to stop growing
• Overcorrection or undercorrection of the limb length discrepancy

Recovery

Following the procedure, the patient will typically need to use crutches for a few weeks. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and mobility in the affected limb. The patient will need to have regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the progress of the limb length correction.

See Also

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Limb length discrepancy