Distal femoral hemiepiphysiodesis using screw and non-absorbable filament for the treatment of idiopathic genu valgum. Preliminary results of 12 knees.

INTRODUCTION

Different techniques for gradual correction of angular deformities of lower limbs exist. Screws and nonabsorbable filament has been described as an effective alternative for transitory hemiepiphysiodesis in New Zealand rabbits.

HYPOTHESIS: Hemiepiphysiodesis using screws and non-absorbable filament is effective in pediatric population, for correction of genu valgum.

METHODS

Retrospective evaluation, 12 knees in 6 patients younger than 15 years (3 female), operated because of genu valgum. An anchoring system with two 4.0mm cancellous screw with metal washer joined by FiberWire #2.0 filament. Initial and final intermalleolar distance (IMD) and mechanical lateral distal femoral angle were compared, recording complications. Mann-Whitney test was used for statistics, with significance value <0.05.

RESULTS

All patients achieved the expected correction. IMD and mLDFA were significatively improved. Only one patient presents a minor perioperative complication.

DISCUSSION: Lateral distal femoral hemiepiphysiodesis with screws and nonabsorbable filament resulted to be an effective alternative for genu valgum gradual correction in pediatric population. This is the first article that proposes this model, as an efficient and simple alternative for the treatment of genu valgum in pediatric patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective study, Level IV.