Closed dome osteotomy technique for pediatric patients with cubitus varus

Cubitus varus is a well-known late complication of elbow fractures with cosmetic and functional problems. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the closed dome osteotomy technique detail which was performed through a minimal antecubital incision in patients with cubitus varus deformities. The clinical and radiological outcomes of this technique were also evaluated.

From February 2020 to January 2023, 16 children with cubitus varus were included in this study. All patients underwent closed dome osteotomy through a minimal antecubital incision, without exposing the osteotomy site. The varus and extension deformity was corrected with external fixation and K-wires. Functional and cosmetic outcomes were evaluated by using Flynn criteria and Mayo Elbow Performance Score.

The humerus-elbow-wrist angle show significant difference between preoperative (-19.9 ± 7.6 degrees) and postoperative (11.4 ± 3.9 degrees) angle (P < .001). The range of motion of the operative elbow showed no significant difference between the preoperative and postoperative measurements. All patients achieved satisfactory functional and cosmetic results according to the Flynn and Mayo Elbow Performance Score.

In patients with cubitus verus, the closed dome osteotomy technique showed satisfactory functional outcomes with minimal incision compared with conventional dome osteotomy. This is a feasible choice for pediatric patients with cubitus varus deformity.