[Stapling using Blount's technic in idiopathic frontal deviations of the lower limbs in children]

Growth plate stapling using Blount's technique is still under discussion in its application to adolescent's lower limbs axial deformities. To establish its validity, we present a review of 18 stapling cases, 15 for valgus knees and 3 for genu varum. Mean follow up is 5 years 9 months. We analyse chronological age, bone age, clinical measurements, standing X-rays, as well as the site, time of insertion and removal of staples in these children all with symetrical involvement. Full correction of genu valgum is obtained in 30% of cases, partial correction in 30%, but varus deformity is never completely corrected. Undercorrection is as frequent as overcorrection, valgus being twice converted to significant varus. Immediate complications are few and benign, but long term sequellae of various consequence numerous. We think that this technique should be abandoned for genu varum. results when applied to valgus knees are unpredictable due to the inaccuracy of estimation of bone age and remaining growth potential, rendering impossible the exact timing of staples insertion and removal, need to avoid either definitive epiphysiodesis or deformity recurrence through rebound effect.