Overcorrection Provides Better Final Coronal Plane Alignment in Genu Varum Patients Treated With Tension-Band Plating and Followed Up to Skeletal Maturity
Retrospective study demonstrates improved final coronal alignment after intentional overcorrection in pediatric genu varum, suggesting protection against recurrent varus.
Key Points
To assess how intentional overcorrection at the time of implant removal impacts final coronal alignment in pediatric genu varum managed with tension-band plating up to skeletal maturity.
Retrospective review of 27 bone segments treated with temporary hemiepiphysiodesis between 2014 and 2024.
Radiographic parameters (mechanical lateral distal femoral angle and mechanical medial proximal tibial angle) were measured by two independent observers preoperatively, at hardware removal, and at final follow-up (median 88 months post-removal).
Segments were classified as overcorrected or not overcorrected at implant removal, and their alignment at final follow-up was evaluated.
Normal alignment at skeletal maturity occurred in 66.7% of overcorrected segments versus 26.7% of non-overcorrected segments (OR=5.50, 95% CI 1.05–28.88; P=0.038).
Inter-rater reliability was excellent for radiographic parameters, and no implant-related complications occurred.