Kasvukõhrplaat

Kasvukõhrplaat, also known as the epiphyseal plate or physis, is a cartilaginous layer within the long bones of children and adolescents. It is located near the ends of long bones, between the diaphysis (shaft) and the epiphysis (end). This plate is crucial for longitudinal bone growth, meaning it is responsible for the increase in length of bones.

The cells within the kasvukõhrplaat, primarily chondrocytes, undergo mitosis and produce new cartilage. This new cartilage is then gradually replaced by bone through a process called endochondral ossification. As long as the kasvukõhrplaat remains active, bones continue to grow longer.

Growth at the kasvukõhrplaat is regulated by hormones, particularly growth hormone and sex hormones. During puberty, sex hormones initially stimulate rapid growth, but they also accelerate the maturation and eventual closure of the kasvukõhrplaat. Once the cartilage in the plate is completely replaced by bone, longitudinal growth ceases. This typically occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood.

Injuries to the kasvukõhrplaat are of particular concern in children and adolescents because they can disrupt normal bone growth. Fractures through the physis can lead to premature closure of the plate on one side, resulting in a limb length discrepancy or angular deformity. Understanding the structure and function of the kasvukõhrplaat is therefore important in pediatric orthopedics.