[Results of the treatment of the distal femoral epiphysiolysis].

INTRODUCTION

Distal femoral epiphysiolysis (DFE) is rare. In most of the cases it occures as an open epiphysiolysis. In the past DFE had often resulted in a tissue necrosis and required an amputation. Among complications limb shortening due to premature epiphyseal closure and deviation of the limb axis are evidenced.

AIM: This study was conduced in order to evaluate the results of the treatment of DFE.

MATERIAL: Eight children suffering from DFE who had undergone a treatment between 1990 and 2005 were reviewed. The mean age at the time of injury was 15.3 years. All cases of epiphysiolysis have been classified as Salter-Harris type II. The treatment consisted of reduction and 6 weeks immobilisation in 3 cases. Reduction followed by K-wire stabilization and immobilisation was applied in all other cases.

METHODS

The follow-up evaluation covered a clinical and roentgenographic examination. The angular deformmity of tibia was measured in saggital and frontal plane in comparison to intact side. The range of motion and stability of both knee joints were recorded as well. The comparative X-ray pictures of the femur and knee joint were taken in A-P and lateral positions.

RESULTS

The study revealed a premature closure of the injured distal femoral epiphysis in four children. There was a limb shortening of over 2 cm in 3 cases and over 3cm in one case.

CONCLUSION

The distal femoral epiphysiolysis is a rare type of injury. It often leads to leg length discrepancy.