Correction of knee and ankle valgus in hereditary multiple exostoses using the Ilizarov apparatus

BACKGROUND: Hereditary multiple exostoses (HME) is a genetic disorder that causes limb deformities due to disturbance at the growth plates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six adolescents, whith symptomatic valgus deformity at the ankle and knee (seven affected legs) underwent correction procedures using the Ilizarov apparatus. In 5 legs, a bifocal Ilizarov apparatus was used, whereas in 2 legs the use of a monofocal apparatus was sufficient. RESULTS: Correction of the mechanical axis was achieved in all cases, and limb length discrepancy was equalized in the 3 cases that underwent limb elogation. The average knee and ankle corrections were 15° and 18°, respectively. The average time from application to removal of the Ilizarove apparatus was 4.6 months. No major complication occurred. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the Ilizarov method in adolescents with HME enables successful simultaneous correction of multiplanar, multifocal complex limb deformities.