Epiphyseal stapling of the proximal tibia for idiopathic genu valgum

J Child Orthop. 2009 Jun;3(3):217-21. doi: 10.1007/s11832-009-0178-5. Epub 2009 May 5.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of hemiepiphysiodesis with a single medial staple of the proximal tibia in idiopathic genu valgum angular correction.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed identifying nine adolescents (18 knees) treated for idiopathic adolescent genu valgum by means of a bilateral hemiepiphysiodesis with a single staple of the proximal tibia. The intermalleolar distance (IMD) and hip-knee-ankle angle were measured at skeletal maturity.

Results: The IMD and hip-knee-ankle angle were reduced in all patients at skeletal maturity.

Conclusion: Hemiepiphysiodesis with a single medial staple of the proximal tibia seems to be a reliable and safe alternative method to achieve correction of an idiopathic genu valgum.