2023 Annual Meeting Knee Access Pass-Ideal Screw Length to Avoid the Physis for Fixation of Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions in the Femur Condyle

Ideal Screw Length to Avoid the Physis for Fixation of Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions in the Femur Condyle

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Patrick Massey presented a study on ideal screw lengths to avoid damaging the growth plate (physis) during fixation of osteochondritis dissecans lesions in pediatric femoral condyles. Analyzing 97 patients aged 6-17, the study measured screw lengths in various condyle regions, emphasizing caution to prevent epiphysiodesis. Key findings include shortest safe screw length of 14mm universally, with longer screws—around 18-22mm—appropriate depending on lesion location and patient age, which correlates with increased screw length. The recommendation is to use shorter screws initially and only obtain intraoperative x-rays if necessary to prevent physis injury during surgical fixation.

Asset Caption

Patrick Massey, M.D., M.B.A

Keywords

osteochondritis dissecans

pediatric femoral condyles

screw length

physis injury prevention

epiphysiodesis risk