The natural history and management of congenital short tibia with dysplasia or absence of the fibula.

Forty-three patients with unilateral congenital short tibia with partial or complete absence of the fibula are reviewed. The factors influencing the degree of leg shortening at maturity are considered. Serial radiographic measurements of leg length in fourteen patients covering an average observation period of 9-3 years support the hypothesis that the relative difference in growth between the two limbs remains remarkably constant. By estimating the percentage difference between the normal and abnormal leg lengths on the first measurable radiograph it is therefore possible to predict the likely shortening at maturity. This method of prediction allows the surgeon to make the decision to proceed to Syme's amputation or to the use of an extension prosthesis at about one year of age when the child starts to walk.