epifysavslutningen

Epifysavslutningen, also known as epiphyseal closure or fusion, is the process by which the growth plates of long bones, called epiphyseal plates, stop growing and fuse with the main shaft of the bone (the diaphysis). This process signifies the end of longitudinal bone growth. Epiphyseal plates are areas of cartilage located near the ends of long bones in children and adolescents. These plates are responsible for the increase in bone length through a process called endochondral ossification.

As an individual reaches skeletal maturity, the cartilage in the epiphyseal plates gradually ossifies, meaning it is replaced by bone tissue. This ossification process typically occurs at different rates for different bones and is influenced by hormonal factors, particularly sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, which increase significantly during puberty. The timing of epiphyseal closure varies between males and females, with females generally reaching skeletal maturity and epiphyseal closure earlier than males.

Once the epiphyseal plates have completely fused, longitudinal bone growth ceases. This marks the attainment of adult height. Incomplete fusion can lead to certain medical conditions, and the presence or absence of open epiphyseal plates is often used in forensic science and medicine to estimate age, particularly in younger individuals. Radiographic examination of the epiphyseal plates is the standard method for assessing their status.