Short-term Outcomes of High Tibial Osteotomy Using a Plate Versus a Plate With an Interbody Fusion Cage in Adolescent Tibia Vara : a Comparative Study

Overview

Tibia vara is a progressive angular deformity of the lower limb centered at the proximal tibial physis, producing a characteristic bowing of the leg. The condition is believed to result from an abnormal distribution of biomechanical stresses combined with an underlying genetic predisposition. (1) Excessive mechanical loading on the medial portion of the proximal tibial growth plate leads to asymmetric physeal activity, ultimately causing a pathologic varus deformity of the tibia.(²)

The adolescent tibia vara may affect one or both limbs and is typically identified during or shortly before the pubertal growth spurt. (1) It is more frequently reported among individuals of African descent and those with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40. (2) The increased body weight in these patients accentuates compressive forces on the posteromedial aspect of the proximal tibial physis,(3) resulting in localized inhibition of growth according to the Heuter-Volkmann principle, and leading to progressive varus deformity.(4) In many cases, associated deformities may also be observed at the distal tibia or femur, presenting as either varus or valgus alignment abnormalities.(5) Given the mechanical and structural nature of this deformity, corrective high tibial osteotomy (HTO) remains the cornerstone of surgical management in adolescent tibia vara. Modern fixation methods particularly the use of plate fixation versus plate combined with interbody fusion cage are being explored to enhance alignment correction, stability, and long-term outcomes in this challenging age group.

Conditions