Simultaneous bilateral correction of genu varum with Smart frame

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Biomechanical analysis

Background:

• Bilateral genu varum is a complex deformity requiring effective surgical correction.
• Accurate realignment of the mechanical axis is crucial for long-term joint health.
• Traditional methods may have limitations in simultaneous bilateral correction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of simultaneous bilateral genu varum correction using the Smart frame.
• To assess the accuracy and reliability of the Smart frame in deformity correction.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 25 patients with bilateral genu varum underwent simultaneous bilateral tibial and fibular osteotomy using the Smart frame.
• Radiological parameters including mechanical axis deviation (MAD), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA), and posterior proximal tibial angle (PPTA) were measured.
• Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Short Form-36 questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in mean preoperative mechanical axis deviation (37.6 mm to 8.4 mm) and tibial angles (mMPTA 76° to 89°, PPTA 75.5° to 80.3°) was observed (p < 0.05).
• The procedure demonstrated a low complication rate, with 20% experiencing minor problems and 4% encountering obstacles.
• No sequelae were reported across the 50 operated legs.

Conclusions:

• The Smart frame is an accurate and reliable technique for simultaneous bilateral correction of genu varum.
• This method is suitable for various severe childhood tibial deformities, including achondroplasia, rickets, skeletal dysplasia, and Blount's disease.