Use of temporary external fixation to generate a "customized" osteotomy of proximal femur in pediatric patients.

Proximal femoral osteotomies are performed commonly by pediatric orthopedic surgeons. Traditionally, utilization of a blade plate has been the standard method of realignment and fixation of the osteotomized fragments. In conjunction with use of temporary Schanz screws to generate the most appropriate realignment, newer implants with locking fixation capabilities can be used to stabilize essentially "customized" osteotomies of the proximal femur.