The preferred method of lower limb deformity correction for adolescent children

  Traditionally, correction of skeletal deformities often requires bone amputation. However, in adolescent children whose bones are still developing, it is possible to correct the angular deformity by regulating the growth of both sides of the damaged epiphyseal plate.  First, we know that the long bones of the limbs grow mainly by the growth plates (also called epiphyseal plates) at their ends. It is composed of layers of chondrocytes of different maturity levels, and the chondrocytes near the side of the diaphysis continue to mature, and the mature chondrocytes are transformed into bone cells, accompanied by calcification of the surrounding matrix, forming cancellous bone added to the ends of the long bones, and the long bones grow. Under normal circumstances, this epiphyseal plate growth is balanced.  When the growth mechanism of the epiphyseal plate is impaired by trauma, infection, tumor, radiation, metabolic, or developmental abnormalities, the growth of the epiphyseal plate is inhibited, resulting in slow growth or even stagnation (limb inequality) and growth imbalance (bony deformity).  In the case of bony curvature due to imbalance in growth of the growth plate, the skeletal deformity can be “reversed” by temporarily stalling the relatively fast growing side of the epiphyseal plate and allowing the slow growing side to grow sufficiently. This is achieved by placing a small plate with two screws across the growth plate on the convex side of the angular deformity.  If this works, it avoids the need for osteotomy to correct the deformity and avoids the need for postoperative casts and prolonged bed rest. The wound is removed in two weeks and the patient is able to move around and quickly return to daily life, school, and sports.  When there is a significant improvement in the appearance, the radiographs will be reviewed. A. B. C. Boy, 12 years old, 8 years of progressive ectropion of both knees. preoperative film taken on 11-8-5. b. taken on 12-6-28. C, taken on 12-9-13. Thirteen months after surgery, the mechanical axis of both lower limbs is normal, and both lower limbs are symmetrical and straight.