Question
Fracture at which site affects the longitudinal growth of a bone?
| A. |
Diaphysis
|
| B. |
Epiphysis
|
| C. |
Metaphysis
|
| D. |
None of above
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » B
Explanation
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|
Epiphysis is the end part of a long bone. In children, the epiphysis is separated from the metaphysis by the growth plate (physis). This growth plate is responsible for longitudinal bone growth through endochondral ossification.
If a fracture involves the epiphysis and damages the growth plate (as in Salter-Harris fractures), it can impair longitudinal growth. Therefore, fractures involving the epiphysis affect the length of the bone.
Explanation of Other Options
A. Diaphysis
The diaphysis is the shaft of the long bone. Fractures here generally heal without affecting longitudinal growth because the growth plate is not involved.
C. Metaphysis
The metaphysis is the region between the diaphysis and epiphysis. Although it is a highly vascular and metabolically active area, fractures limited to the metaphysis do not directly disturb the growth plate unless the physis is involved.
