Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Cubitus Varus Deformity Treated with Modified French Osteotomy and Reconstruction Plate Fixation

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Cubitus varus deformity, commonly resulting from malunited supracondylar fractures in children, leads to significant cosmetic and functional impairment. Its surgical correction remains challenging, with various osteotomy techniques yielding variable outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of cubitus varus deformity treated with modified French osteotomy and reconstruction plate fixation. Method & Materials: This prospective observational study was conducted at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), Dhaka, from May 2017 to August 2019. Twenty-two patients diagnosed with cubitus varus deformity were enrolled. All patients underwent modified French osteotomy with reconstruction plate fixation. Pre-operative and post-operative carrying angle, range of motion, and lateral condylar prominence index (LCPI) were measured. Functional outcomes were assessed using Bellmore criteria at final follow-up. Data were entered and analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: The mean age was in the 10-15 year group (45.5%). Males comprised 59.1% of patients. The most common cause was a malunited supracondylar fracture (81.8%). Mean carrying angle improved significantly from −25.14°±8.28° pre-operatively to 4.81°±5.48° post-operatively (p<0.001). Flexion improved from 132.36° to 139.09° (p=0.007). Internal rotation decreased significantly (p<0.001). LCPI normalised post-operatively (p<0.001). According to the Bellmore criteria, 63.64% achieved excellent outcomes and 27.27% good outcomes. Conclusion: Modified French osteotomy with reconstruction plate fixation is an effective and reliable surgical technique for correcting cubitus varus, providing significant radiological correction and satisfactory functional outcomes with a low complication rate.