Transphyseal Resection of Post-Traumatic Linear Physeal Bars of the Distal Tibia Using a Large-Diameter Trephine: A Report of Two Cases

Background

Physeal fractures of the distal tibia may result in persistent growth arrest and physeal bar formation. An asymmetrical bar, combined with continued skeletal growth, leads to progressive ankle deformity. Physeal bar resection is a standard procedure for local growth plate damage. However, linear bars that traverse the entire sagittal plane from the anterior to the posterior cortex are technically challenging to curette.

Methods

Two clinical cases of pediatric patients with posttraumatic linear distal tibia bars are presented. Both patients underwent resection using a large-diameter trephine and bone wax. Temporary hemiepiphysiodesis with an 8-plate was also performed, although this proved technically unsuccessful in one case.

Results