Triple modified French osteotomy: a possible answer to cubitus varus deformity. A technical note

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Surgical Techniques
• Limb Deformity Correction

Background:

• Cubitus varus is a frequent complication following pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.
• This deformity presents a significant clinical challenge in pediatric orthopedic surgery.
• A novel surgical approach, the triple modified French osteotomy, was developed to address this issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the triple modified French osteotomy for treating post-traumatic cubitus varus in children.
• To assess the corrective potential and complication rates associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of ten pediatric patients (aged 6-12 years) with cubitus varus deformity (varus angle >10°) underwent the triple modified French osteotomy.
• Radiographic measurements were used to determine the varus angle and assess surgical outcomes.

Main Results:

• Radiographic union at the osteotomy site was achieved in an average of 5.5 weeks.
• The mean angular correction of cubitus varus deformity was 27°.
• No instances of radial or ulnar nerve palsy or joint stiffness were observed post-operatively.

Conclusions:

• The triple modified lateral closing wedge French osteotomy is a straightforward and cosmetically favorable treatment for pediatric cubitus varus.
• This technique may serve as an alternative to more complex surgical procedures.
• It effectively addresses the limitations associated with standard closing wedge osteotomies.