Longitudinal epiphyseal bracket: associated foot deformities with implications for treatment

The longitudinal epiphyseal bracket is a rare ossification defect of bones of the hands and feet and results in an abnormal epiphysis that is C-shaped, longitudinally oriented, and vertically extends into the diaphysis. The longitudinal epiphyseal bracket may exist as an isolated deformity, but is commonly associated with digital deformities such as polydactyly, duplicated digits, congenital hallux varus, and clinodactyly. Five case histories of children with the longitudinal epiphyseal bracket in different bones of the foot are described with three distinct clinical presentations. The development of the longitudinal epiphyseal bracket and implications for treatment are considered.