Valgus Deformity following Proximal Tibial Metaphyseal Fracture in Children

Abstract

Seven children with fractures of the proximal tibial metaphysis, with primary valgus angulation and cortical diastasis medially, were seen at follow-up 18 months to 11 years after the accident to assess the trend of the valgus deformity. All the children had been treated non-operatively with a plaster cast. In six patients showing radiological signs of interposition of soft tissues medially in the fracture gap, the valgus angulation had progressed during the first year despite clinical healing. From 1–2 years after the accident the deformity slowly regressed due to corrective longitudinal growth. Routine surgery to remove the interposed soft tissue does not seem to be justified.

Key Words:

• children's fractures
• corrective growth
• interposition of soft tissues in fractures
• tibia
• valgus deformity