EPIPHYSIODESIS OF THE LOWER-EXTREMITY - RESULTS OF THE PERCUTANEOUS TECHNIQUE

The results of 42 percutaneous epiphysiodeses of the lower extremity i n 26 patients are reported. All patients achieved physeal arrest radio graphically and clinically. No patient developed angular deformity fro m incomplete arrest. No neurovascular complications or fractures occur red. The average hospital stay for patients undergoing epiphysiodesis alone was I day. Percutaneous epiphysiodesis of the lower extremity pr ovides a reliable and safe technique for growth plate arrest. The adva ntages of this technique include a cosmetic scar, short hospital stay, low incidence of complications, and reliable physeal arrest.