Knock Knee
In this condition when the legs are brought together then the knees
will touch each other and the ankles will be separated. The normal intermalleolar
distance is usually less than 10 cm.
Causes
1. Physiological genu valgum. This is seen in all children between 3-6 yrs. of age.
It will correct over a period of time. The lower end of femur is the common site
of origin of genu valgum
2. Pathological conditions. Renal osteodystrophy, dysplasia, physeal injury
Indications for surgery
1. Intermalleolar distance more than 10 cm
2. >15-20 deg valgus
Operative procedures
Surgery.
A) Hemi epiphysiodesis (growth modulation). Staples or ‘8’ plates can be used to
temporarily stop the growth of one side of the growth plate so that gradual correction
occurs over a period of time. It is a small surgery and does not require plaster.
The child can be mobilized once the pain decreases
B) Osteotomy and correction. This is performed in older children in whom the growth
has stopped. Bone is cut and an implant is placed to correct the deformity.
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Pre-operative clinical photo of a child with genu valgus
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Post-operative clinical photo of child 1 year after surgery
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