Synovial fistula after tension band plating for genu valgum correction
Momaya, A.; Ray, P.; Khoury, J.
American Journal of Orthopedics 44(1): 37-39
2015
ISSN/ISBN: 1078-4519 PMID: 25566555 Document Number: 684326
Tension band plating is a commonly performed procedure to address angular deformities about the knee in children. We present a case of a synovial fistula formation after tension band plate removal, an unreported complication in the literature. An 11-year-old girl underwent tension band plating for genu valgum. After removal of the plate, she developed a synovial fistula that was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Her knee was immobilized in extension, which allowed the synovial fistula to heal. The unique capsular anatomy in the knee provides a possible etiology. Physicians performing tension band plating should be aware of this complication and consider a brief period of immobilization of 3 to 5 days after hardware removal to allow the capsular rent to heal.