Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a rare pathology, which is usually associated with neurofibromatosis type I. The natural history of the disease is extremely unfavorable and once a fracture occurs, there is a little or no tendency for the lesion to heal spontaneously. It is challenging to treat effectively this difficult condition and its possible complications. Treatment is mainly surgical and it aims to obtain a long term bone union, to prevent limb length discrepancies, to avoid mechanical axis deviation, soft tissue lesions, nearby joint stiffness, and pathological fracture. The key to get primary union is to excise hamartomatous tissue and pathological periosteum. Age at surgery, status of fibula, associated shortening, and deformities of leg and ankle play significant role in primary union and residual challenges after primary healing. Unfortunately, none of invasive and noninvasive methods have proven their superiority. Surgical options such as intramedullary nailing, vascularized fibula graft, and external fixator, have shown equivocal success rate in achieving primary union although they are often associated with acceptable results. Amputation must be reserved for failed reconstruction, severe limb length discrepancy and gross deformities of leg and ankle. Distinct advantages, complications, and limitation of each primary treatment as well as strategies to deal with potential complications have been described. Each child with CPT must be followed up till skeletal maturity to identify and rectify residual problems after primary healing.
When we hear the term “joint pain,” we often think of temporary aches from overuse or minor injuries. But for many individuals, especially those with arthritis or degenerative joint conditions, joint pain can be severe, persistent, and life-limiting. In such cases, joint replacement surgery can offer lasting relief and restore mobility- helping patients return to…
Read MoreThe diagnosis of a bone or limb deformity in a child can be scary for parents, and the term “surgery” may seem daunting. However, the good news is that the majority of pediatric orthopedic deformities are treatable without surgery — provided they are diagnosed early and treated by a specialist who has expertise in children’s…
Read MoreWhen a kid fractures a bone, it may appear to be a smaller replica of an adult fracture — but in actuality, it’s a completely different medical condition. Kids’ bones are not only smaller; they are still developing, more resilient, and more structurally distinct, making their fractures more complicated to treat than they seem. That’s…
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