Surgical Resection of Post-Infectious Physeal Bars in the Proximal Tibia: A Case Study and Comprehensive Literature Review
By
Roman Shcherbakov
Ahmer A. Khan
Ardian Ramadani
Andreas Tsoupras
Giacomo de Marco
Oscar Vazquez
Christina Steiger
Romain Dayer
Nicolas Lutz
Dimitri Ceroni
July 17, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Surgical Resection of Post-Infectious Physeal Bars in the Proximal Tibia: A Case Study and Comprehensive Literature Review
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Physeal bars following growth plate injuries
Key Mechanisms Formation of bony or fibrous bridges between the epiphysis and metaphysis leading to growth arrest
Target Population Pediatric patients with limb length discrepancies and angular deformities due to physeal bars
Care Setting Pediatric orthopaedics unit
Key Highlights
Physeal bars can develop due to infections, leading to significant limb deformities. Surgical resection of physeal bars can restore knee motion and resolve symptoms. MRI is the preferred imaging modality for detecting early fibrous physeal bars.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Use MRI for precise detection of physeal bars and assessment of growth potential.
Management
Treatment options include observation, surgical resection, and corrective procedures tailored to the bar's characteristics.
Monitoring & Follow-up
Regular follow-up to assess limb growth and alignment post-surgery.
Risks
Potential for irreversible joint irregularities if physeal bars are not addressed.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Children with growth plate injuries and resultant physeal bars.
Minimally invasive techniques, such as arthroscopy, can enhance surgical outcomes.
Clinical Best Practices
Integrate arthroscopy with intraoperative imaging for improved surgical precision. Tailor treatment based on the location and extent of the physeal bar.
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