physeal bar resection
Surgical procedure to remove bony bridges that form across growth plates, typically following physeal injuries.
Full Definition
Physeal bar resection is a specialized pediatric orthopedic procedure designed to remove abnormal bony bridges (physeal bars) that form across growth plates following trauma, infection, or other insults. These bars can cause growth disturbances, limb length discrepancies, and angular deformities by tethering normal growth plate function. The procedure involves careful surgical excision of the bar, often with interposition of fat, bone wax, or other materials to prevent reformation. Success depends on factors including the size and location of the bar, remaining growth potential, and timing of intervention. The procedure is most effective when bars involve less than 50% of the growth plate area and significant growth remains.
Usage
Usage note: Contrast with epiphysiodesis, which deliberately destroys growth plate function rather than restoring it.
In Context
- "Physeal bar resection with fat interposition was performed to address the medial growth arrest." — Operative report
- "MRI demonstrated a central physeal bar involving approximately 30% of the distal radius growth plate, amenable to resection." — Surgical planning note