Radiostereometric analysis for monitoring percutaneous physiodesis. A preliminary study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Growth plate management

Background:

• Percutaneous physiodesis is used for leg-length discrepancy and extreme height.
• Incomplete physeal arrest can lead to angular deformities.
• The timing of physeal arrest after percutaneous physiodesis is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the time interval from percutaneous physiodesis to physeal arrest.
• To assess the occurrence of angular deformities after the procedure.
• To determine the efficacy of radiostereometric analysis in monitoring growth retardation.

Main Methods:

• Ten children underwent percutaneous physiodesis (6 for leg-length discrepancy, 4 for extreme height).
• Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) was used to track 3D growth dynamics.
• Measurement precision for translation was <0.05 mm and rotation <0.06 degrees.

Main Results:

• Physeal arrest was achieved in 9 out of 10 children within 12 weeks.
• No clinically significant angular deformities were observed.
• RSA provided precise monitoring of growth retardation.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous physiodesis is a suitable method for treating leg-length discrepancy and extreme height.
• Early detection of incomplete physeal arrest is possible with RSA.
• The procedure can be repeated if necessary, potentially avoiding corrective osteotomy.