Introduction. The purpose of our study was to retrospectively analyze our patients who were treated for FH and PFFD by means of guided growth temporary Hemiepiphysiodesis. We sought to determine the effectiveness of the procedure, as well as its success rates, complications, and rebound phenomena. Materials and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and all routine preoperative and post operative long standing radiograph of all the FH and PFFD patients that were operated in our institute using guided growth hemiepiphysiodesis technique of distal femur or proximal tibia between 2007 to 2017. Results. 42 patients (28/FH, 14/PFFD) with 55 involved physis were included in the study. The mean duration of follow-up was 51.11 ± 27.56 months after the first operation. The average age at first plate insertion was 11.7 years and 50% of patients reached puberty by the time of data collection. 32 physes (21 FH, 11 PFFD) were operated due to pathological mLDFA with a mean angle correction of 6.24° for the FH group and 6° for the PFFD group and time-to-correction of 14.07 months and 11.56 months, respectively. 23 physes (14 FH, 9 PFFD) were operated due to pathological mMPTA with a mean angle correction of 4.43° for the FH group and 6.22° for the PFFD group with time-to-correction of 17.95 months and 20.35 months respectively. 40% (12/30) of patients, whose metalwork was removed, had a recurrence of the deformity, 7/21 [33.3%] in the FH group and 5/9 [55%] in the PFFD group. All required a second hemiepiphysiodesis operation. 2. nd. rebound was recorded in 3/21 (14%) FH patients and 2/9 (22%) PFFD patients. Conclusions. Temporary hemiepiphysiodesis is an effective treatment of angular deformities around the knees of FH and PFFD patients. With low complication rate and high risk of
Aim of the study: To evaluate the final outcome following joint distraction and reconstruction in patients with complex knee contractures in a select group with varied aetiology. Materials and methods: Retrospective study of six patients (nine knees, 3 bilateral) with severe knee flexion contractures treated by gradual distraction using ring fixators. Most cases were syndromic or arthrogrypotic.. Case notes and radiographs were reviewed to assess the mobility and functional range of motion before and after the procedure. Results: Staged procedures was carried out in 6 out of 9 knees accompanied by soft tissue releases, realignment of extensor mechanism and bony and joint realignment. The average age at operation was nine years and nine months and the mean follow up was 53 months. The average time spent in frame was 20 weeks. The correction was graded as good to excellent in 5 knees, fair in 1 and poor in 3 knees. The total arc of motion remained unchanged though the functional range of movement improved. The mobility improved significantly in most patients who were independent walkers with or without splints. Complications were of