A retrospective review of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia

Thirty-three children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia seen from 1970 to 1997 at the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Lexington, KY were retrospectively reviewed. Twelve children were excluded due to follow-up of less than 2 years. Data was collected on age, sex, side and associated neurofibromatosis from the medical records of the remaining 21 children. Lesions were classified as to status at birth. The number of surgical attempts for union was recorded. Presence of bony union, deformity, and limb length discrepancy was noted. The mean age at last follow-up was 13 years. Union was reported in 10 children (48%). There was no union after more than 3 surgical attempts. The 11 children without union had an average of 4 surgical attempts (range 2-6). Amputation was performed in 7 of the 11 children without union. No predictor for nonunion was identified. Amputation was frequently needed.