The density of growth cartilage evaluation due to epiphysiodesis procedure

Abstract Introduction Proper prediction of remaining lower limbs growth is crucial for determining the optimal timing of epiphysiodesis in patients with limb length discrepancies or the curvature occurred in knee joint occurred in children during rapid growth period. Several methods are commonly used in correction of such orthopedic problem. One of them is procedure of epiphysiodesis. The main goal of the study was to evaluate changes in the density of growth cartilage at the distal end of the thigh bone following epiphysiodesis, and to compare it with the cartilage density on the side without screw placement in the same limb, as well as with the contralateral side. Material and methods The clinical study included 9 patients of both sexes (5 females and 4 males) who were treated at the Department and Clinic of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice. Results The regions of interest marked on the X-ray images from which the average pixel value have been derived. Conclusions The conducted study demonstrated a statistically significant difference of over 50% the average pixel value between preoperative and postoperative measurements on the side where screws were placed (p = 0.01). Additionally, a significant difference of 50% was observed between the preoperative pixel value on the side designated for screw placement and the postoperative pixel value on the contralateral, non-operated side.