The surgical treatment of pseudoarthroses and congenital curvatures of the leg. Review of the literature on the basis of 7 personal cases
Lerat, J.L.; Lecuire, F.; Berard, J.; Rebouillat, J.
Chirurgie Pediatrique 21(1): 77-88
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0180-5738 PMID: 6996858 Document Number: 155212
On the basis of 7 personal cases of pseudarthrosis and of congenital curvature of the leg reported in detail, including 6 in which consolidation was obtained with a valid follow up (5 cases for more than 14 years), a review is undertaken of the results of surgical techniques. Analysis of these 7 cases and of 82 sufficiently detailed cases from the literature indicate that the transtarsal nailing suggested by Guillemin, combined with corticospongiose grafts, remains the technique of choice. A number of suggestions are made on particular technical points. This method results in consolidation and above all offers the best protection against recurrent fractures whilst retaining a good axis and without interfering with growth. It is the method which limits to a minimum the sequelae of shortening and valgus deformity of the ankle. Indications differ for curvatures and constituted pseudarthroses and the age at which treatment should be started is discussed.