An 11-year-old girl has progressive idiopathic genu valgum of 20 degrees with the mechanical axis passing well into the lateral compartment. She has substantial growth remaining. What is the most appropriate treatment?
- A Temporary lateral hemiepiphysiodesis of the distal femur with a tension band plate ✓
- B Permanent medial distal femoral epiphysiodesis
- C Supracondylar varus osteotomy of the femur now
- D Observation with annual radiographs until maturity
Correct answer: A. Temporary lateral hemiepiphysiodesis of the distal femur with a tension band plate
Explanation
Guided growth by temporary lateral hemiepiphysiodesis with a tension band plate uses remaining growth to correct the valgus gradually, and the plate can be removed once alignment is restored. Osteotomy is reserved for children close to skeletal maturity or with deformity too severe for the available growth. Observation risks progression into an irreducible range, and permanent epiphysiodesis sacrifices growth unnecessarily.
Reference: Tachdjian's Pediatric Orthopaedics, 5th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.