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physeal bar
A bony bridge across the growth plate that can cause growth disturbances.
Full Definition
A physeal bar, also known as a bony bridge or growth arrest bar, is an abnormal connection of bone tissue across the physis (growth plate) that interrupts normal longitudinal bone growth. These bars can result from trauma, infection, or other pathological processes affecting the growth plate. Physeal bars may lead to limb length discrepancy, angular deformities, or both, depending on their location and extent. Treatment options include bar excision, epiphysiodesis, or corrective osteotomy depending on the clinical scenario.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from complete physeal arrest; specify percentage of growth plate involved.
In Context
- "MRI demonstrated a central physeal bar involving 30% of the distal femoral growth plate." — Imaging interpretation
- "Surgical excision of the physeal bar was performed with fat interposition to prevent recurrence." — Operative note
Also known as
bony bridge
growth arrest bar
physeal bridge
Don't confuse with
physeal arrest
epiphysiodesis