Review Question - QID 8866

Proximal tibia fractures in children often result in a valgus deformity which usually resolves on its own with observation.

Proximal tibia metaphyseal fractures in a skeletally immature patient may develop a valgus deformity. The valgus deformity usually resolves spontaneously with time as the child grows. The patient's caregivers should be notified in advance of this potential deformity.

Zionts et. al performed a retrospective review of 7 patients with post-traumatic tibia valga. The children were between 11 months and 6 years at the time of injury. The valgus deformity appeared to progress during the period of initial fracture healing as well as after fracture union. The angulation progressed most rapidly during the first year after the injury and continued at a slower rate for as long as 17 months. They noted spontaneous improvement of the deformity with growth, and therefore recommend a conservative approach for the management of the valgus deformity.

Figure A demonstrates a proximal tibial metaphyseal fracture in a skeletally immature patient.

Incorrect Answers:
Answers 1, 2, 3, 5 do not contain the correct combination of a valgus deformity and observation.