Growth arrest of the proximal tibial physis with recurvatum and valgus deformity of the knee

Abstract

Two cases of asymmetrical closure of the proximal tibial epiphysis without a clear aetiological factor were presented. In both cases premature closure of the growth plate resulted in progressive recurvatum and valgus deformity of the knee with leg length discrepancy. The correction of deformity was obtained using Taylor Spatial frame with excellent results at 2 years follow-up. We hypothesize that repetitive trauma or chronic overloading during sports activities might be a factor of growth arrest in reported cases. Orthopedic surgeons should be aware of the possibility of subtle physeal injuries, causing angular deformities, in the cases of even minor knee trauma in skeletally immature population.