Single bone straight line graphs for the lower extremity.

Abstract

Valuable information about growth and growth prediction in the lower extremity has been provided in the past by Anderson and Green, Moseley, and Menelans. Greater patient expectations and advanced techniques for lower extremity lengthening require more precise information regarding the growth characteristics of each long bone. A simple method for predicting growth is presented for the femur and tibia. Straight line graphs similar to one described previously by Moseley for the entire lower extremity have been drawn separately for the femur and tibia. Information from a contemporary population and new knowledge about growth plate activity have been included to provide more accurate predictions. By superimposing identically scaled growth remaining graphs on these single bone straight line graphs, a simple and accurate estimate is obtained for the timing and effect of epiphysiodeses or lengthening procedures.