Introduction
4 of 6

Distraction epiphysiolysis is a physeal distraction technique with a relatively rapid rate of distraction ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 mm per day. Rapidly increased tension at the growth plate produces a fracture. The subsequent separation of the epiphysis from the metaphysis leads to replacement of the growth plate by trabecular bone.

FIG. 1.6-1.8. Radiographs of a goat spine during distraction epiphysiolysis. Application of the distraction force across the physis (arrow) results in a subepiphyseal fracture (left). Continued distraction creates a gap between the epiphysis and the vertebral body (center). The distraction gap rapidly fills in with osteogenic tissue (right).

Audio