Operative Brief: Treatment with eight-Plate
The eight-Plate guided growth plate is made of titanium alloy and includes a center hole to insert over a guide wire. The plate also has two holes for insertion of either cannulated or solid screws. These are placed under fluoroscopic control, one in the epiphysis and one in the metaphysis. It is important to avoid placement of screws across the physis or penetrating the articular surface. One plate per physis is sufficient; care should be taken to place it mid sagittal unless one is correcting an oblique plane deformity.
The surgical approach is identical for that used in stapling. The periosteum must be left undisturbed in order to avoid permanent physeal closure. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis; no immobilization is required. Full weight bearing and return to activities are encouraged as tolerated. The patient should be monitored for growth every three months in order to document improvement and anticipate the timing of implant removal.
