Coxa vara: another option for fixation

Coxa vara is a progressive childhood deformity that is best remedied by a valgus intertrochanteric osteotomy. By restoring the femoral neck and its physis to a more anatomic position, hip mechanics are normalized, with consequent beneficial effects upon hip motion, limb lengths and acetabular development. In the pediatric age group, there is no implant specifically designed for this purpose. Therefore, in addition to the challenge of obtaining adequate correction, inadequate fixation may contribute to recurrent varus deformity, a problem that, according to the literature, has a 30% to 70% prevalence. We are presenting a new technique using a modified veterinary plate for osteosynthesis in children in the 5-year-old to 11-year-old age group. The rationale, implant design, surgical technique and results in a group of nine patients (12 hips) are described.