During open
epiphysiodesis, a block of bone on top of the growth plate is removed with a
chisel. The block is then rotated (90 or 180 degrees) and placed across the
growth plate, which creates a bridge.
Also Known As:
- Pediatric bone growth delay
- Bone growth restriction
- Bone fusion
- Epiphysiodesis
- Phemister epiphysiodesis
Conditions Treated with Open Epiphysiodesis:
Open epiphysiodesis
may be performed in cases of adolescent limb length difference.
There are no
comparable non-surgical alternatives to open epiphysiodesis. Surgical
alternatives include epiphyseal stapling, percutaneous epiphysiodesis and leg
shortening through bone removal.
Anesthesia with Open Epiphysiodesis:
Open epiphysiodesis
is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep
and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Open
Epiphysiodesis:
Possible risks
following open epiphysiodesis include infection, bleeding, femur facture and a
negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible for there to be a
failure to restrict bone growth and for the patient to have shorter stature as
an adult.
Recovery from Open Epiphysiodesis:
Total recovery from
open epiphysiodesis takes eight to 12
weeks.