In this report, seventeen cases with epiphyseal injuries of the ankle were reviewed: 16 cases were caused by a traumatic lesion and one resulted from the careless penetration of the epiphysis a large Kirschner wire used for the treatment of a tibial shaft fracture. The age of the patients at the time of the injury averaged 11 years and 2 months, ranging from 3 to 15 years. The average follow-up period was 4 years and 3 months. A varus deformity of the ankle was observed in 2 cases.
The factors which influenced the prognosis were discussed and following results were obtained.
First, partial growth arrest would occur not only in Salter-Harris type IV fractures of the epiphysis, but also in type II fractures. Second, anatomical reduction of the fracture is the most important factor in preventing growth disturbance. Third, careless penetration through the growth plate with pins or screws should be avoided. Fourth, on the occasion of a premature partial growth arrest, excision of the osseous bridge is necessary in early childhood.
