Our Experience with Correction of Angular Deformities of Knee by Flexible Figure of 8-plate Hemiepiphysiodesis

Background: Genu valgum and genu varum deformity in the lower limb in children results in cosmetic problem, gait disturbance, pain and early joint degeneration. Most of them are physiological and improve to the normal adult femorotibial angle before the age of eight years. Persistent deformities are corrected by osteotomy and internal fixation or gradual correction by external fixation.Osteotomy has got its complications. Gradual correction also can be achieved by stapling, percutaneous drill technique and transphysial screw. Stapling has drawbacks related to implant failure including migration and breakage of implants. Drilling and screwing carries risk of permanent growth arrest. The timing of epiphysiodesis has to be perfect otherwise there may be under correction or overcorrection. 8-plate temporary hemi-epiphysiodesis is a new concept and producing good results with less complication. The objective of this study is to reduplicate the results of 8plate hemiephiphysiodesis on angular deformities of knee joint. Methods: We attempted gradual correction through 8-plate in 31 patients with 54 angular deformities around knee. Cases were followed for 38months (range, 24 to 52months) after removal of implants. Measurements were compared pre and postoperatively. Results: There was statistically significant improvement in all the outcome measures measured. There was gross reduction of intermalleolar distance and reduction in angular deformity. Conclusions: 8-plate hemiepiphysiodesis is an effective means for correcting angular deformity around the knee in skeletally immatured patients.