Pinnacle Guru · Published archive
Genu Valgum and Genu Varus
Published
Introduction :
Q - Angle : Angle formed between the line joining ASIS and centre of patella and the line joining centre of patella and tibial tuberosity .
Normal :
Females : 15 to 18 degrees
Males : 10 to 12 degrees
GENU VALGUM commonly known as knock knees .
Limb is deviated towards midline of the body and both knees touch each other when knee is in full extension.
It is a normal physiological process in children upto four years of age .
Distal femur is the most common location of primary pathologic genu valgum but can arise from tibia .
Knee joints touch each other while standing.
Increased Q - Angle
Increased inter-malleolar distance
Investigation : Orthoscanogram
Treatment :
Non operative
Observation of deformity and parental counselling.
Consider as first line of management for physiological genu valgum in children of less than 6 years .
Operative treatment
Physeal tethering
Bone stappling
Corrective osteotomy
GENU VARUS
Angular deformity of proximal tibia in which the child appear bowlegged.
Maximum varus is present at 6 to 12 months of age
Bowlegs after two years of age considered abnormal
Etiology :
May be sequel of childhood deformity and if so usually cause no problems . However if the deformity is associated with joint instability this can lead to osteoarthritis of the medial compartment.
Investigations :
Orthoscanogram
Treatment :
Non operative
Brace application
Operative
Tibial osteotomy
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