Surgical correction of cubitus varus in children with a lateral closing-wedge osteotomy: a comparison between two different techniques

Objectives The primary objective of the present study is to compare the radiographic outcomes and complications of two different techniques for lateral closing-wedge osteotomy in pediatric patients with cubitus varus. Methods We retrospectively identified patients treated at five tertiary care institutions: 17 underwent the Kirschner-wire (KW) technique, and 15 patients were treated with the mini external fixator (MEF) technique. Demographic data, previous treatment, pre- and postoperative carrying angle (CA), complications and additional procedures were recorded. Radiographic evaluation included assessment of the humerus-elbow-wrist angle (HEW), and the lateral prominence index (LPI). Results Patients treated with both KW and MEF achieved significant improvements in clinical alignment (mean pre-op CA -16 +/- 6.1 degrees to mean post-op 8.9 +/- 5.3 degrees, P < 0.001). There were no differences in final radiographic alignment or radiographic union time; however, time to achieve full elbow motion was faster in the MEF group (13.6 versus 34.3 weeks, P = 0.4547). Two patients (11.8%) in the KW group experienced complications, including one superficial infection and one failed correction that required unplanned revision surgery. Eleven patients in the MEF group underwent a planned second surgical procedure for hardware removal. Conclusions Both fixation techniques are effective at correcting cubitus varus in the pediatric population. The MEF technique may have the advantage of shorter recovery of elbow range of motion but may require sedation for hardware removal. The KW technique may present a slightly higher complication rate.