Epiphyseal stapling of the proximal tibia for idiopathic genu valgum

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of hemiepiphysiodesis with a single medial staple of the proximal tibia in idiopathic genu valgum angular correction. Methods A retrospective review was performed identifying nine adolescents (18 knees) treated for idiopathic adolescent genu valgum by means of a bilateral hemiepiphysiodesis with a single staple of the proximal tibia. The intermalleolar distance (IMD) and hip–knee–ankle angle were measured at skeletal maturity. Results The IMD and hip–knee–ankle angle were reduced in all patients at skeletal maturity. Conclusion Hemiepiphysiodesis with a single medial staple of the proximal tibia seems to be a reliable and safe alternative method to achieve correction of an idiopathic genu valgum.