Skeletal growth in normal and pathological conditions.

The authors describe the morphological and functional differences between the various systems of enchondral ossification of the metaphysis and epiphysis of the long bones, the short bones and the zones of insertion of tendons and ligaments. They discuss the relationships between the various types of enchondral ossification, the rates of skeletal growth and a number of orthopaedic growth disorders. In deformity of the lower limb, skeletal growth produces spontaneous correction in the majority of cases. Spinal abnormalities, on the other hand, tend to deteriorate during the period of rapid growth of the trunk.