epiphysiodesis
Pronunciation: eh-pih-fiz-ee-oh-DEE-sis
Surgical fusion of a growth plate to prevent further longitudinal bone growth, sometimes necessary after tumor resection in skeletally immature patients.
Full Definition
Epiphysiodesis is a surgical procedure that permanently stops growth at a specific growth plate, relevant in pediatric orthopedic oncology when tumor resection affects normal growth mechanisms. This procedure may be performed prophylactically to prevent limb-length discrepancy following tumor resection, or therapeutically to address growth disturbances caused by chemotherapy, radiation, or surgical trauma to the growth plate. In oncological applications, epiphysiodesis is most commonly considered when expandable prostheses are not feasible or when growth plate injury has occurred during tumor surgery. The procedure involves either physical destruction of the growth plate through curettage and bone grafting, or placement of implants across the physis to create a bony bridge.
Usage
Usage note: Singular form; plural is 'epiphysiodeses'.
In Context
- "Contralateral epiphysiodesis was performed to prevent limb-length discrepancy after tumor resection." — Operative report
- "The timing of epiphysiodesis must be carefully calculated based on remaining growth potential." — Pediatric oncology consultation