Correction of severe congenital knee contracture a technique of soft tissue release and femoral shortening

ABSTRACT

Two cases of children with severe bilateral congenital knee contracture due to arthrogryposis multiplex congenita that were managed by a one-stage operation for correction of their knee contracture are reported. Both had bilateral flexion deformities of the knee of about 140 degrees that prevented them from standing upright or walking. The surgical procedure included a posterior soft tissue release with shortening of the femur, internal fixation and skin grafting. Satisfactory correction was obtained in both patients and they were able to walk independently