ABSTRACT
This case report describes the intricate aspects of managing pediatric lower limb trauma. A 7-year-old patient had a severe compound fracture and significant soft tissue damage in the left lower limb, classified as Gustilo Grade IIIC. This necessitated the use of scoring systems such as the Mangled Extremity Severity Score and limb salvage index to assess the likelihood of limb preservation. Despite these high amputation risk indicators, a multidisciplinary approach has led to limb salvage surgery with internal fixation. Detailed postoperative monitoring revealed progressive recovery culminating in restored sensation, bone healing, and functional recovery. The discussion emphasizes the difficulties in deciding between limb salvage and amputation, stressing the importance of tailored care and cautious scoring system interpretation in pediatric cases. This conclusion advocates the prioritization of limb salvage in children owing to their unique healing capabilities while highlighting the need for further research to refine treatment protocols for pediatric lower limb trauma.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The Gollop-Wolfgang Complex (GWC) was initially described by Gollop et al. and is a rare congenital limb anomaly disorder characterized by the association of distal bifid femur and tibial agenesis. CASE PRESENTATION: This study presents a case of a 12-year-old boy with Gollop-Wolfgang Complex (GWC), a rare congenital limb anomaly disorder characterized by the association of distal bifid femur and tibial agenesis. The patient did not have any VACTERL abnormalities and had a normal level of intelligence. Examination revealed coxa valga in both hips and upper limbs on both sides, a shortened left leg with a palpable bony protuberance and absence of the patella, and a shortened right leg with a palpable fibula lateral to the knee and absent tibia with severe knee varus deformity on both sides. Both feet revealed equinovarus deformity with ectrodactyly. The patient underwent through-knee amputation and was fitted with two prostheses to provide enhanced functional support. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The etiology of GWC is still unknown, but errors in the complex genetic control of limb development are believed to be related. CONCLUSION: Treatment choice depends on the deformity type, with through-knee amputation recommended for cases with observed flexion contracture, bifid femur, and tibial hemimelia, followed by modern prosthesis fitting for optimal outcomes. This case illustrates the efficacy of this surgical management and highlights the need for ongoing follow-up care.
