Posttraumatic proximal tibial growth arrest: a rare injury managed successfully with ring fixators

A ring fixator was used in the treatment of five patients (ages 11 to 16 years) with proximal tibial growth arrest after trauma. The mean corrections were 14.2 degrees (maximum 28 degrees , minimum 0 degrees ) in the saggital plane and 14 degrees (maximum 38 degrees , minimum 2 degrees ) in the coronal plane. Leg length discrepancy was also corrected (max 1 cm). The average time in frame was 17.8 weeks, with an average correction time of 29.8 days. Knee Society Clinical Rating System scores post operatively ranged from 95-100. All patients returned to full activity, and would accept the same treatment if offered again. The circular fixator is an effective, minimally invasive method for treating the complex deformities arising from this rare injury. Patients remain active during treatment, encouraging a rapid return to school/work activities.