Focal fibrocartilaginous dysplasia of the tibia: long-term evolution.

Focal fibrocartilaginous dysplasia of the tibia (FFCD) is a rare and benign condition associated with unilateral tibia vara in childhood. The first description was done by Bell in 1985. Since then more than sixty cases have been reported. The aetiology remains unknown. Five new cases are retrospectively reported. Four of them with tibia vara less than 30 degrees showed a spontaneous correction. One patient had a severe varus deformity (> 30 degrees) leading to physeal impairment and underwent a tibial valgus osteotomy. Biopsy is not necessary as radiographs are typical. The infantile growth plate is able to correct a tibia vara due to FFCD if less than 30 degrees. In case of spontaneous resolution, a long-term follow-up remains necessary because of a possible progressive leg length discrepancy.