About Epiphysiodesis
Key Highlights
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Minimally invasive procedure with small incisionsEffectively corrects limb length discrepancies without major bone cuttingPrevents future complications like joint pain, arthritis, or gait abnormalitiesHigh success rate when performed at the optimal time during growthShorter recovery time compared to limb-lengthening surgeriesPerformed by specialized pediatric orthopedic surgeons/ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Limb length discrepancy greater than 2 cm in a growing child
- Angular deformities of the legs (e.g., genu valgum or varum)
- Predicted future discrepancy based on growth charts and bone age
- Asymmetry due to congenital conditions (e.g., hemihypertrophy)
- Post-traumatic or post-infectious growth plate disturbances
- Discrepancies from conditions like polio, cerebral palsy, or skeletal dysplasias
How to prepare
- Detailed clinical examination and measurement of limb lengths
- X-rays, including scanograms, to assess bone age and growth remaining
- Consultation with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon to discuss goals and timing
- Pre-operative blood tests and medical clearance
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before surgery as advised
- Discussion of anesthesia (typically general) and post-op pain management
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the surgical site
- Bleeding or hematoma formation
- Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
- Under-correction or over-correction of the length discrepancy
- Growth plate closure failure requiring repeat procedure
- Stiffness or temporary reduced range of motion in the adjacent joint
- Anesthesia-related risks
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically lasts 1-2 days for monitoring and initial pain control
- Use of crutches or a walker for 2-4 weeks to avoid weight-bearing on the operated leg
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Keeping the incision clean and dry; stitches removed in 10-14 days
- Physical therapy may be recommended to maintain joint mobility and strength
- Regular follow-up X-rays every 6-12 months to monitor growth and correction progress
- Avoidance of contact sports for 2-3 months or until cleared by the surgeon
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Typical hospital stay: 1-2 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-3 weeks for initial recovery; full effect seen over 1-2 years as growth completes
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering epiphysiodesis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform epiphysiodesis. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for epiphysiodesis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 80 Thousand – 250 Thousand | 1-2 days | ~ 2-3 weeks for initial recovery; full effect seen over 1-2 years as growth completes | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 280 Thousand – 875 Thousand | 1-2 days | ~ 2-3 weeks for initial recovery; full effect seen over 1-2 years as growth completes | Know More |
James Miller is a 14-year-old avid...
James Miller is a 14-year-old avid basketball player from a tall family. Over the past year, his pediatrician noted his growth was accelerating asymmetrically, and James himself started feeling clumsy and uneven. His left leg was growing significantly faster than his right, causing a noticeable limp and back pain after practice. Dr. Chen, a pediatric orthopedist, confirmed a 2.5 cm leg length discrepancy via scan and explained that James's left growth plate was overactive. She recommended epiphysiodesis, a minimally invasive procedure to gently slow the growth of the longer leg, to allow the right leg to catch up and prevent future arthritis and spinal issues. The surgery was outpatient. James was anxious about missing his season and being 'different,' but the team used guided imagery to calm him. Recovery involved crutches for a few weeks and light physical therapy. A year later, the discrepancy has corrected to 0.5 cm. James is back on the court, his gait is smooth, and his back pain is gone. He moved from fear of being sidelined to relief and gratitude for a simple fix that let him keep playing the sport he loves.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Epiphysiodesis
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform epiphysiodesis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata