Guided Growth with 8 Plates for Knock Knees

 

For a whole lot of reasons, some kids have knock knees – and the fix is easier than expected!

The most common reason is knock knees for no reason, might run in the family, and often is worst at four years of age, then gradual improves.   If instead it’s gradually worsening, it can lead to a variety of problems like knee pain, patella dislocation, and even torn cartilage (lateral mensicus).

A novel solution has been guided growth correction – a temporary device is placed on the inner aspect of the knee growth plates, and then slows the growth of that region.  The rest of the knee continues to grow, and gradually straightens the knee.  The small “8-plates”  are inserted under XR control in the operating theatre, ensuring that the screws are placed either side of the growth plate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whilst a little sore to start with – most the kids can resume playing sport and being active.  Then its a matter of waiting – gradually the legs come around.  Most kids have them in around the age of 11 (girls) & 13 (boys) but it is a case by case scenario.  The plates often stay in for a year, until a very slight overcorrection occurs, just in case there is a rebound after the plates come out.

 

Dr Harris and Dr Hipsley at the The Masters Games

Dr Greg Harris and Dr Anthony Hipsley have been busy out of the office of late – heading to the Masters Games of 2018 which was held in Alice Springs.

The Alice Springs Masters Games is Australia’s first and oldest Masters Games, starting in 1986. Every two years over 3000 athletes come to the Red Centre for a week of competition and camaraderie. Some have even made the trip from Ballarat!

 

 

 

Both of our Sports Medicine doctors were at this year’s “Friendly Games”, held from October 13-21st. As Medical Director, Greg Harris headed a team of 7 doctors, including our Anthony Hipsley, 8 physios and a small army of Sports Trainers. The pop-up Sports Medicine Clinic usually sees about 1000 patient contacts over the week, and this Games saw the clinic busier than ever.

 

Thankfully most of the injuries are relatively minor, with lots of sprains, strains, torn calves and hammies, but there is always the risk of serious injury or illness, especially in the Alice Springs heat. It’s a bit of a shock coming from a Ballarat winter to 38°C.