Correction of old standing fixed flexion deformity of the knee in poliomyelitis by soft tissue operation followed by gradual plaster wedging.

Over two years from March 1990, 30 cases of clinically diagnosed old poliomyelitis were seen; 22 males and eight females, aged from 10-24 years, with an average age of 17 years. No treatment was attempted before. In 15 cases, both knees were affected; 50 pc of those patients never walked before but were using wheel chairs. The rest could put on calipers and were walking putting their hands over the affected knee and experienced frequent falling. Flexion deformity ranged from 90-100 degrees (average 100 degrees). Upper limbs, the spine, sphincters and sensations were normal. In all cases quadriceps muscles were grade 0 (zero). A similar technique was used in all cases. Out of 30 patients 93 pc have had good results. They are walking using calipers and crutches with the knee in a full range of movement. These patients became self sufficient. One case developed a partially stiff knee (3.3 pc). Another case developed genu recurvatum (3.3 pc).