- Bone bridge obliterates the growth plate cartilage & prevents growth;
- Peripheral bone bridges predispose the patient to angular deformities;
- Most common sites of growth arrest include the distal tibia, distal humerus and distal ulnar physis;
- Much less common sites include the distal radius and proximal humerus.
Radiology:
- Extent of bone bridge is demonstrated by CT scanning and tomograms.
Indications for Bone Bridge Resection:
- Resection is indicated if less than 1/3 to 1/2 of the growth plate is involved;
- Younger children tend to have a better prognosis with resection than older children;
- Less than 2 years of remaining growth is a relative contra-indication for bone bridge resection;
- Central bars are more amenable to resection than peripheral bars;
- Ischemic or septic related bone bars have a poor prognosis with resection.