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Fibular shortening in poliomyelitis
O P Sharma1, N Sharma, K R Patond
1Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram District Wardha.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Children with post-polio paralysis often experience leg length discrepancies. This study found fibular shortening is common, linked to factors like early paralysis onset and specific bone deformities.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Pediatric neurology
- Biomechanical analysis
Background:
- Residual paralysis from poliomyelitis can disrupt normal limb development in children.
- Tibia and fibula growth dynamics are crucial for lower limb length and alignment.
- Post-polio syndrome can lead to significant musculoskeletal abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the relationship between the tibia and fibula in children with post-polio residual paralysis.
- To identify factors contributing to fibular shortening in affected lower limbs.
- To correlate fibular shortening with specific skeletal deformities.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 76 pediatric patients with unilateral post-polio residual paralysis.
- Evaluation of fibular length and its relationship with tibial morphology.
- Assessment of associated deformities including ankle valgus and genu valgus.
Main Results:
- Sixteen out of 76 patients exhibited fibular shortening.
- Fibular shortening was associated with anatomical continuity, soleus muscle strength, and distal fibular physeal forces.
- Earlier age of paralysis onset correlated with increased fibular shortening.
Conclusions:
- Fibular shortening is a notable complication in pediatric post-polio residual paralysis.
- Factors affecting fibular growth significantly impact limb length and alignment.
- Early onset paralysis exacerbates fibular shortening and leads to complex deformities like tibial torsion and genu valgus.