Growth plate

Abstract

The growth plate, which is seated between the metaphysis and the epiphysis, is responsible for longitudinal and circumferential growth of long bones. This structure is composed of three distinct histological layers with different cellular organization and function. The systemic hormones in the circulation, locally produced growth hormones with peptide structure and biomechanical forces control the cellular activity in growth plate. These control mechanisms enable equal limb lengths at the end of the growth period. The modulation of the proliferation potential of the growth plate cells by means of different surgical techniques has been used in the treatment of limb length differences and deformities of the long bones and the spine.