Physeal bridge

Physeal bridge is a lesion of the growth plate in children that causes an alteration in the growth of the bones themselves and therefore a progressive deformity and shortening of the bone.

Physeal bridge generally occurs following trauma or infection of the growth plate. In some cases, the cause cannot be determined.

A Physeal bridge represents an area of ossification that “binds” the epiphysis and metaphysis of a bone and prevents the cartilage from growing normally. This has consequences that depend on various factors.

Physeal bridge: consequences

• If the Physeal bridge is very extensive and if it particularly affects the central area of the growth plate, the damage to growth will be significant, causing shortening of the bone.
• If the Physeal bridge is small and located in the peripheral part of the growth plate, the effect will be a progressive deviation of the axis.
• Generally, lesions of the growth plate cause both shortening and deviation at the same time.

Physeal bridge: treatment

Treatment requires experienced centers.

• In specific cases, direct treatment of the bridge may be considered.
• In other cases, the consequences must be treated by performing corrective surgery, epiphysiodesis, osteotomies and lengthening (please refer to the relevant information sheets).

OrthoChildren Center performs all these procedures.