Primary hypophosphatemic rickets. Effect of oral phosphate and vitamin D on growth and surgical treatment.

Failure to diagnose and treat hypophosphatemic rickets during childhood resulted in stunted growth and progressive deformities of the lower limb. When the deformities were treated surgically, recurrent deformity and non-union of osteotomies developed, and further major opeative procedures were required to remedy these complications. Treatment from early childhood with oral phosphate and vitamin D improved the rate of growth and controlled the progression of bowleg deformity. Residual varus deformity was corrected by osteotomy through the proximal tibial metaphysis at skeletal maturity, when the results were predictable. Genu valgum deformity was corrected by stapling the medial part of the distal femoral epiphysis prior to skeletal maturity. With early postoperative mobilization and adequate medication, the complications of delayed tibial union and failure to correct the femoral valgus deformity were avoided.