Improved function and joint kinematics after correction of tibial malalignment.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Malunion of tibia fractures can lead to impaired gait, altered joint kinematics, and reduced functional outcomes.
• Patient-reported outcomes and overall well-being are often negatively impacted by untreated tibial malunions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of surgical correction for malunited tibia fractures.
• To assess improvements in gait, joint kinematics, and patient-reported health and well-being following surgical intervention.

Main Methods:

• Eleven patients with symptomatic tibial malunions underwent surgical correction via osteotomy and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF).
• Follow-up assessments included gait analysis, joint kinematic measurements, and patient perception surveys.
• Minimum follow-up duration was 7 months, with a mean of 11 months.

Main Results:

• All osteotomies achieved eventual healing, with two patients requiring revision surgery for complications.
• Significant improvements were observed in lower extremity joint kinematic values, aligning closer to normative data.
• Patients reported substantial enhancements in their perception of health and overall well-being post-surgery.
• Gait parameters demonstrated minimal significant changes despite surgical correction.

Conclusions:

• Surgical correction of symptomatic malunited tibia fractures leads to significant improvements in lower extremity joint function.
• The procedure positively impacts patients' perceived health and overall satisfaction, despite limited effects on gait.
• Surgical intervention is recommended for symptomatic malunited tibia fractures to enhance functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.