Abstract
Tibial shaft malunions occur when the tibia has healed in an inappropriate position that affects the mechanical function and axis of the lower limb. Patients with tibial malunions often experience significant disability and loss of productivity. Without treatment, the alteration in gait mechanics and limb alignment can lead to chronic pain, functional impairment, and adjacent joint degeneration. However, the treatment of tibial shaft malunions can be complex due to the need to correct both length and angular deformities often in the setting underlying infection, history of multiple procedures, and a tenuous soft tissue environment. It is imperative to perform a thorough evaluation including history, physical examination, laboratory studies, and imaging in order to optimize the patient’s likelihood of a successful treatment course. Recent advancements in technology and surgical techniques have increased the ability of the orthopedic surgeon to appropriately treat this complex problem while minimizing patient morbidity.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Malunions |
Subtitle of host publication | Diagnosis, Evaluation and Management |
Publisher | Springer US |
Pages | 351-380 |
Number of pages | 30 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781071611241 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781071611227 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1 2020 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Limb length inequality
- Tibial malunion
- Tibial osteotomy
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Medicine