MANAGEMENT OF SEVERE KNEE FLEXION CONTRACTURES IN A CHILD WITH ARTHROGRYPOSIS MULTIPLEX CONGENITA

Abstract

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is a syndrome characterized by the presence of congenital contractures involving multiple joints usually with flexion deformities, with or without pterygia or webbing at the joints. The aim of this case report was to highlight the challenges of management of severe knee contractures in AMC and possible solutions in a resource limited setting like ours. We presented a one-year-old child with bilateral severe knee contractures secondary to arthrogryposes. The involvement of knee is present in about 70% of cases with arthrogryposis, with flexion deformity more common than extension deformity. Knee flexion contractures, as seen in our patient, is one of the most disabling deformities. The surgical option adopted in the case presentedwere met with various challenges including abnormal muscles insertions, shortening and fibosis of the muscles, abnormal position and shortening of the neurovascular structures in the popliteal fossa.