Guided growth for angular correction in valgus knee deformity following subtotal meniscectomy of the discoid lateral meniscus in a juvenile knee: A case report

Abstract

Introduction

Few studies have reported the development of severe knee deformities after total or subtotal meniscectomy for juvenile discoid lateral menisci (DLM). We report a juvenile case of valgus knee deformity and severe chondral lesions after subtotal meniscectomy.

Case presentation

A 6-year-old girl with DLM underwent subtotal meniscectomy of the anterior and middle menisci. At the age of 11 years, imaging showed severe valgus knee deformity with morphological deformities and severe chondral lesions. An Eight-Plate hemiepiphysiodesis-guided growth method was used to gradually correct the lower leg alignment. Currently, the desired alignment with improvement of the bony deformity and cartilage has been achieved.

Conclusions

In a juvenile knee with valgus bony deformity and severe chondral lesions, the gradual correction of valgus deformity through temporary hemiepiphysiodesis resulted in an improvement in bone deformity and cartilage defect.