Correction of tibia vara with six-axis deformity analysis and the Taylor Spatial Frame

J Pediatr Orthop. 2003 May-Jun;23(3):387-91.

Abstract

Operative correction for infantile and adolescent tibia vara has been described using both external and internal fixation. Gradual correction using a circular fixator offers the advantage of accurate coronal, sagittal, and axial plane correction without significant soft tissue dissection. This study evaluated the use of six-axis deformity analysis and the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) for the correction of tibia vara. Nineteen patients (22 tibias), 6 with infantile and 13 with adolescent tibia vara, underwent correction with TSF. On the basis of mechanical axis correction, 21 of 22 tibias were corrected within 3 degrees of normal. Using Schoenecker's criteria, all patients achieved good results (no pain, <5 degrees difference in tibial-femoral angle from the normal side). Complications included one intractable pin-site infection, two superficial pin-site infections, and one delayed union. Six-axis deformity analysis and TSF provide accurate and safe correction of infantile and adolescent tibia vara.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Joint Deformities, Acquired / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Deformities, Acquired / surgery*
  • Knee Joint* / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Orthopedic Procedures / instrumentation*
  • Radiography