How can deformities be corrected using the early growth technique?
Our long bones in the skeleton grow with the help of growth centers called "growth plates." These growth plates can be influenced to guide the bone's growth and correct deformities during its development.
How does the early growth technique correct deformities?
If there is a deformity in a long bone (such as the thigh or shin), we can influence its growth plate to correct the deformity while it continues to grow.
Doesn't this process occur naturally?
It does! However, it happens slowly, and sometimes there is no self-correction. We intervene in the process to achieve rapid correction. In young children, we initially monitor without intervention. If it appears that the deformity is self-correcting, we won't intervene. In some cases, underlying diseases or nutritional deficiencies can lead to deformities, so early evaluation is essential. If an underlying condition is treated, the deformity may self-correct.
How do you influence the growth plate?
We insert a small implant during surgery, which slows down the growth of the growth plate. This causes the other side of the plate to grow faster, leading to the correction of the bone deformity.
When is this technique used?
We mainly offer this treatment for deformities in the legs, but only in significant cases where normal growth is not expected to correct the deformity.
When is this technique unsuccessful?
When there is no more growth left in the growth plates, this technique is not effective. If the procedure is not carefully controlled and monitored, there may be overcorrection or deformity on the opposite side due to excessive influence from the implant. Another reason for its ineffectiveness is when there is an underlying bone disease (e.g., rickets). In cases of bone disease, surgical treatment needs to be combined with the treatment of the bone condition for it to stabilize and align properly.
How long does the implant remain on the growth plate?
We remove the implant (during surgery) when the deformity is corrected.
What complications could arise from this technique?
Like any surgery, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and nerve injury, but these are very rare as it is a minor procedure. The surgeon will discuss all potential complications with the child and their family before the surgery is scheduled.
How is the surgery performed?
The surgery is done under general anesthesia, with an incision of approximately 3 cm. We attach the implant to the bone near the growth plate. The procedure is guided by an X-ray. There is no restriction on weight-bearing on the legs after the surgery, but there may be local pain and movement of the joint near the surgical site might be difficult temporarily. It is recommended to use crutches until the pain subsides.
When does the leg align itself?
The correction process is gradual and depends on the bone's growth rate. We monitor the progress every three months. Once the bone is aligned, we plan for the removal of the implant.
What preparations are necessary before such surgery?
Before the surgery, X-rays should confirm the deformity and the growth in the growth centers of the affected bone (the surgeon will review the images and determine the implant's placement). It is important to be evaluated and discuss the procedure, its success rate, and potential risks with the medical team. We recommend researching the technique online and preparing a list of questions.
If it is decided to proceed with the surgery, you should be financially prepared with health insurance coverage for the operation. Arrive on the day of the surgery at the Pediatric Orthopedics department as per the instructions you will receive.
*The information provided here is for general knowledge purposes and does not replace in-depth discussions with the treating team.