Temporary Epiphysiodesis Using the Eight-Plate in the Management of Children with Leg Length Discrepancy: A Retrospective Case Series

Abstract

Background Although eight-plates have been shown to be effective in correcting angular deformities of the knee, the literature is scarce regarding the efficiency of this method in treatment of children with LLD. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the efficiency, rates of correction and complications of epiphysiodesis using eight-plate in the management of children with leg length discrepancy (LLD). Methods Eleven consecutive patients with LLD (7 boys, median age = 9, age range 6-11 years) who were treated by temporary epiphysiodesis using eight-plates were retrospectively reviewed and included in the study. The main indication for temporary epiphysiodesis was an LLD between 2 and 5 cm in all patients. LLD and lower limb alignment were examined on lower extremity weight-bearing radiography preoperatively and at skeletal maturity. Longitudinal correction rate was calculated. The final LLD was categorized as ''good result'' (final LLD 2 cm). Results The mean treatment period with the eight-plate was 44 (min to max = 32-72) months, and the mean follow-up from the index surgery to the final follow-up was 62 (min to max = 39-106) months. The mean LLD was significantly reduced from 39 (range 25-50) mm preoperatively to 22.40 (range 6-55) mm postoperatively (p = 0.006). The mean longitudinal correction rate was found to be 0.48 mm/mo. Radiographic evidence of lower limb deformity in frontal and sagittal planes was determined in neither preoperative nor postoperative deformity analysis. No major complications were recorded. Conclusion For the management of children with LLD of 2-5 cm, temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using the eight-plate seems to be an effective treatment with low complication rates.