Gradual Correction of Valgus Deformities of the Tibia Using a Monolateral External Fixator

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Limb reconstruction
• Biomechanical correction

Background:

• Valgus deformity of the tibia can significantly impact limb mechanics and function.
• Gradual correction techniques are essential for managing complex tibial deformities.
• Monolateral external fixators offer a versatile approach to limb alignment correction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of gradual correction for tibial valgus deformities using a monolateral external fixator.
• To assess the outcomes and complications associated with this specific surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients (10-70 years) with tibial valgus deformity treated between 2012 and 2022.
• Inclusion criteria focused on coronal plane tibial deformities amenable to gradual correction.
• Exclusion criteria addressed confounding deformities, skin conditions, and inadequate data.

Main Results:

• A mean age of 30.8 years and BMI of 26.1 kg/m² were observed.
• Congenital/developmental etiology was noted in 58.3% of cases, with mean deformity of 14.7 degrees.
• External fixator time averaged 149.7 days, with significant pre- to post-operative angular correction (p ≤ 0.05).
• Complications included pin site infections (5), cortical fractures (2), and peroneal nerve neuropraxia (1).

Conclusions:

• Gradual correction of tibial valgus deformity using a monolateral external fixator yields satisfactory angular correction.
• The outcomes of this technique are comparable to those reported in existing literature.
• The method provides a viable option for correcting tibial valgus deformities with manageable complication rates.