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Published on: January 24, 2018
Valgus deformity after fibular resection in children
Pedro González-Herranz1, Angel del Río, Jesús Burgos
1Alcalá de Henares University, Madrid, Spain. pgonzalezh@hrc.insalud.es
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|December 25, 2002
Summary
Resection of over 2 cm of the fibula in growing patients causes significant long-term radiological changes in the ankle and tibia. Reconstruction is recommended to mitigate these effects.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Fibula resection in pediatric patients can lead to significant limb length discrepancies and deformities.
- Understanding the long-term radiological consequences is crucial for guiding treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term radiological effects on the ankle and tibia following fibula resection in growing individuals.
- To identify common radiographic abnormalities and their potential clinical relevance.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 23 pediatric patients who underwent fibula resection (>2 cm).
- Radiological assessment using the contralateral limb as a control.
- Analysis of specific findings: fibula head migration, tibial cortex thickening, talar tilt, lateral malleolus migration, tibial valgus, and fibula regeneration.
Main Results:
- Distal fibula head migration (75%), proximal lateral malleolus migration (55%), and talar tilt (45%) were common.
- Incomplete fibula regeneration occurred in 58% of cases.
- Two patients experienced diaphyseal fractures, and one had a distal tibial physeal fracture.
Conclusions:
- Fibula resection in growing patients results in numerous long-term radiological changes.
- Reconstruction methods should be considered following fibula resection whenever feasible to prevent adverse outcomes.
