Guided Growth Surgery (Hemiepiphysiodesis) in India

Guided Growth Surgery (Hemiepiphysiodesis) – Detailed Description

Guided Growth Surgery, also known as Hemiepiphysiodesis, is a minimally invasive orthopedic procedure used to correct bone alignment problems in growing children. It is commonly performed to treat conditions such as knock knees (genu valgum) and bow legs (genu varum).

During this procedure, the surgeon places a small metal plate, screws, or another suitable implant near one side of the growth plate. This temporarily slows growth on that side while the opposite side continues growing naturally. Over time, this gradual difference in growth helps straighten the bone and improve joint alignment.

The main goal of guided growth surgery is to correct abnormal leg alignment, improve walking, and support proper bone development without requiring major bone-cutting surgery.

When Is Guided Growth Surgery Needed?

Guided growth surgery may be recommended for children with:

• Knock knees (genu valgum).

• Bow legs (genu varum).

• Abnormal knee or leg alignment.

• Certain growth-related bone deformities.

• Uneven bone growth.

• Angular deformities caused by previous injuries or medical conditions.

Types of Guided Growth Surgery

• Temporary Hemiepiphysiodesis: A small plate and screws, commonly called an eight-plate, are placed near the growth plate to guide bone growth.

• Medial Hemiepiphysiodesis: Slows growth on the inner side of the growth plate to help correct certain outward knee alignment problems.

• Lateral Hemiepiphysiodesis: Slows growth on the outer side of the growth plate to help correct certain inward knee alignment problems.

Benefits of Guided Growth Surgery

• Corrects abnormal leg alignment gradually.

• Helps improve knee positioning.

• Supports natural bone growth.

• Improves walking and lower limb function.

• Usually requires smaller incisions.

• May avoid the need for more extensive corrective bone surgery.

• Allows children to continue growing during treatment.

Recovery After Guided Growth Surgery

Recovery is generally quicker than major bone realignment surgery, but it depends on the child's condition and the surgical technique.

Doctors may recommend:

• Pain-relief medication.

• Proper wound care.

• Short-term activity restrictions.

• Walking support if required.

• Regular X-rays to monitor bone alignment.

• Follow-up appointments to check correction progress.

• Physiotherapy when needed.

The correction develops gradually over several months. Once the desired alignment is achieved, the surgeon may recommend removing the implants to prevent overcorrection.

Possible Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, guided growth surgery may involve certain risks, including:

• Infection or bleeding.

• Implant loosening or breakage.

• Overcorrection or undercorrection.

• Delayed correction.

• Growth plate damage.

• Uneven bone growth.

• Recurrence of the deformity.

• Need for additional surgery.

Note: Guided Growth Surgery is generally suitable for children who have enough growth remaining. Regular follow-up and X-rays are important to monitor bone alignment and determine the correct time for implant removal.