Epiphysiodesis using a cannulated tubesaw

A technique for epiphysiodesis using a cannulated tubesaw has been developed to combine the precision of the original Phemister method with newer percutaneous methods. The approach is unilateral, and requires minimal access. Reinsertion of the removed core of bone reduces haemorrhage from the defect and augments arrest of the growth plate. In 35 patients treated by this method predicted discrepancies of 2 to 4.5 cm were reliably reduced to 0.7 +/- 0.6 cm, with no serious complications. The timing of surgery is critical, and relies upon careful monitoring of the pattern of discrepancy over several years, using clinical and radiographic measurements. Undercorrection of the disparity in three patients was the direct result of late referral.