Kasvupäähän

Kasvupäähän refers to the growth plate, a layer of hyaline cartilage located in the metaphysis of long bones in children and adolescents. It is the site where new bone tissue is formed, allowing bones to lengthen. This process, known as endochondral ossification, involves the continuous division of cartilage cells on the epiphyseal side and their subsequent replacement by bone tissue on the diaphyseal side.

The growth plate is crucial for skeletal development and overall height. Its activity is regulated by various hormones, including growth hormone, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones. The closure of the growth plates, typically occurring in late adolescence, signifies the end of longitudinal bone growth.

Injuries to the growth plate, known as physeal fractures, can occur in children and adolescents due to trauma. These fractures are a concern because they can disrupt normal bone growth, potentially leading to limb length discrepancies or deformities. Management of physeal fractures often involves careful assessment and appropriate treatment to minimize the risk of long-term complications. Conditions affecting growth plates can also include inflammatory diseases or tumors, which can impact bone development and function. Understanding the structure and function of the growth plate is essential for diagnosing and managing various pediatric orthopedic conditions.