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Epiphysiolysis as a method of limb lengthening
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|June 1, 1978
Summary
Epiphyseal distraction in young rabbits caused growth arrest due to premature fusion. Limb lengthening was successful in skeletally mature rabbits, but joint motion was permanently lost.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Skeletal Biology
Background:
- Limb lengthening procedures aim to correct discrepancies in limb length.
- Epiphyseal distraction offers a potential method for limb lengthening.
- Understanding the effects of epiphyseal distraction on growth plates is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of epiphysiolysis followed by distraction for limb lengthening in rabbits.
- To determine the impact of skeletal maturity on the outcomes of epiphyseal distraction.
Main Methods:
- Epiphysiolysis and distraction were performed on proximal tibial growth plates in 18 young rabbits.
- Animals were divided into two groups based on skeletal maturity at the time of operation.
- Limb length and joint motion were assessed at skeletal maturity.
Main Results:
- All animals achieved union across the distracted plate.
- Skeletally immature rabbits experienced premature fusion and growth arrest.
- Skeletally mature rabbits showed successful limb lengthening without growth arrest, but with permanent loss of joint motion.
Conclusions:
- Epiphyseal distraction is not practical in very young rabbits due to consistent premature fusion.
- Limb lengthening is achievable in skeletally mature rabbits using this method.
- Further research is needed to minimize joint-related complications before considering this procedure in children.