Proximal Focal Femoral Deficiency in Ibadan a Developing Country's Perspective and a Review of the Literature

Abstract

Proximal focal femoral deficiency (PFFD) is a rare but often severe abnormality of the lower limb which poses a significant challenge to effective treatment. We reviewed 21 patients with 23 cases of PFFD treated in our centre in the 14-year period from 1997 to 2010. The male:female ratio was 1:2 and the right femur was more commonly involved. Coincident congenital malformations were identified in four patients (19%), all involving the limbs . Conservative management was employed for all our patients due to non - availability of limb lengthening facilities. The cultural aversion to amputation in our environment makes it difficult to employ that option of treatment. Proximal focal femoral deficiency in Ibadan a developing country's perspective and a review of the literature.Keywords: Proximal focal femoral deficiency , congenital malformations , limb malformations , lower limb anomalies, Nigeria.