Outcome after temporary physeal stapling for knee valgus deformity in children with JIA.

INTRODUCTION: Majority of children with secondary knee valgus deformity due to juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are affected by the polyarthritic disease subtype. Progressive rheumatoid knee destruction in patients with JIA and valgus deformity may necessitate total knee replacement (TKR) at a young age. Temporary physeal arrest is a safe and effective method for correction of knee valgus malalignment prior to closure of the epiphyseal growth plates even during active arthritis.

RESULTS: Most of the angular correction achieved in the stapled knees (n = 103) in the present cohort remained the same through the long-term follow-up though in some patients the deformity did recur. The advantages of angular correction prior to possible future TKR include easier soft tissue balancing, diminished bony deformity and less deranged collateral ligaments reducing the need for expensive custom and constrained implants.

CONCLUSION: However, the effect of the correction on postponing the early need for TKR is limited.