Does Fusion of Hand Growth Plates Indicate Fusion Elsewhere?

The closure of the growth plate in one area does not necessarily indicate that the growth plates in other areas have also closed. Each growth plate can close at different times depending on various factors, including genetics and hormonal influences?

Does the fusion of the growth plates in the hand indicate that the growth plates in other areas are also fused? I have seen a doctor, and my current height is 161.8 cm, with my mother being approximately 145 cm and my father around 170 cm.
I had an X-ray, and the doctor said the growth plates are fused, with a bone age of 18.
However, I noticed that some people have their feet X-rayed, so I would like to ask if the fusion of the growth plates in the hand means that the growth plates in other areas are also fused?

Xie Bao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/10

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

The closure time of the growth plates in the wrist is similar to that of other bones in the lower limbs.
If a 15-year-old male has already closed his growth plates, he is unlikely to grow taller.

Reply Date: 2016/07/10

More Info

The fusion of growth plates, also known as epiphyseal fusion, is a significant indicator of skeletal maturity. In your case, the doctor has noted that the growth plates in your hand have fused, and you have a bone age of 18 years. This information is crucial for understanding your growth potential and overall skeletal development.

To address your question directly: the fusion of the growth plates in the hand does not necessarily indicate that the growth plates in other areas of the body have also fused. Each growth plate in the body can close at different times, influenced by various factors including genetics, nutrition, and hormonal levels. The hand and wrist are commonly used for assessing bone age because they contain multiple growth plates that can be evaluated simultaneously. However, the growth plates in the legs, spine, and other areas may still be open and capable of further growth even if those in the hand have closed.

In general, the timing of growth plate fusion varies by individual and by location in the body. For example, the growth plates in the long bones of the legs typically close later than those in the hand. In females, the growth plates in the lower extremities may remain open until around 18-20 years of age, while in males, they may remain open until about 20-22 years of age. Therefore, it is possible for someone to have fused growth plates in the hand while still having open growth plates in the legs or other areas.

Given your height of 161.8 cm and the heights of your parents (145 cm for your mother and 170 cm for your father), your growth potential may be influenced by genetic factors. The mid-parental height calculation can provide an estimate of your expected adult height, but individual growth patterns can vary widely. If your growth plates have fused, it is likely that you have reached your maximum height, but if there are still open growth plates in other areas, there may be a small chance for additional growth.

If you have concerns about your growth or the implications of your bone age, it would be beneficial to discuss this further with your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional imaging studies, such as X-rays of the legs, to assess the status of the growth plates in those areas. Understanding the complete picture of your skeletal maturity can help in making informed decisions about your health and development.

In summary, while the fusion of growth plates in the hand is an important indicator of skeletal maturity, it does not automatically imply that growth plates in other regions of the body have also fused. Each area can mature at its own rate, and further evaluation may be necessary to determine your overall growth potential.

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