ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the possibility and effectiveness of minimally invasive osteotomy and cable osteosynthesis for the treatment of adolescent eubitus varus. Methods Eleven cases of adolescent cubitus varns(2 cases complicated with internal rotation of 10°)were treated with minimally invasive supracondylar wedged osteotomy to preserve the integrity of the contralateral codex and periosteum.Two screws were inserted above and below the fracture line.They were fixed with cable after the greenstick fracture and internal rotation were adjusted.Plastic bandage was applied for 1 week postoperatively before rehabilitation. Results Bone fractures healed in the 11 cases in 36.3 days averagely,without infection or nerve palsy.Before operation,the mean angles of varus,flexion and extension were 35°±5°,125°±10°and 10°±5°respectively.After a mean follow-up of 33.5 months,the mean valgus angle of the elbow was improved to 8°±2°(t=16.632,P<0.05),flexion to 130°±8°and extension to 8°±3°(P>0.05).Internal rotation deformity was also ameliorated in the 2 cases. Conclusion It is practical and effective to treat adolescent eubitus varus with minimally invasive osteotomy and cable osteosynthesis,for it can lead to stable fixation,short healing time,and does not affect the flexion and extension of the elbow joint.