Bowed legs, also known as genu varum, is a common orthopedic condition that can affect individuals of all ages. It is characterized by an outward curvature of the legs, giving the appearance of a bow shape. While mild cases of bowed legs often correct themselves naturally as children grow, severe or persistent cases may require medical intervention. Guided growth for bowed legs is one such intervention that offers hope for patients seeking to achieve straighter and healthier limbs.
Understanding Bowed Legs
Before delving into guided growth, it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes and manifestations of bowed legs. Bowed legs can be attributed to a variety of factors, including:
Physiological bowing: This is a normal condition in infants, typically occurring during the first year of life as the baby begins to walk. It usually corrects itself as the child grows and the leg bones straighten.
Blount’s disease: A more severe form of bowed legs that tends to manifest in toddlers and young children. It results from abnormal growth in the shinbone (tibia) and can lead to significant bowing if left untreated.
Rickets: A nutritional deficiency disorder that can weaken the bones, leading to bowed legs in children.
Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to develop bowed legs due to the shape of their bones or other hereditary factors.
Guided Growth: An Overview
Guided growth is a specialized orthopedic procedure designed to correct bowing of the legs in children. It is particularly effective in cases where physiological bowing does not self-correct or in more severe conditions like Blount’s disease.
The procedure Involves the use of temporary implants, typically known as “growth plates,” that are strategically placed near the growth areas of the affected bones, often the knee area. These growth plates have the ability to guide the growth of the bone in a controlled manner, allowing it to straighten over time.
How Guided Growth Works
Evaluation: The journey to straighter legs begins with a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. The doctor will assess the patient’s condition, taking into account factors such as age, severity of the bowing, and overall health.
Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, the orthopedic surgeon will create a customized treatment plan. This plan may include the use of guided growth plates, the type and placement of which will be determined by the specific needs of the patient.
Implant Placement: During a surgical procedure, the growth plates are strategically placed near the growth areas of the bone, typically around the knee. These plates are designed to gradually redirect the growth of the bone, allowing it to straighten over time.
Monitoring Progress: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the progress of the guided growth process. X-rays are commonly used to track the changes in bone alignment and ensure that the treatment is on track.
Removal of Implants: Once the desired correction is achieved, the growth plates are removed in a straightforward outpatient procedure. After removal, the bone will continue to grow normally, but now in a straighter alignment.
Benefits of Guided Growth
Non-Invasive: Guided growth is a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions for bowed legs, making it an attractive option for both parents and children.
Age-Appropriate: This procedure is particularly suitable for growing children and adolescents, as it capitalizes on their natural growth processes.
Improved Quality of Life: Correcting bowed legs not only enhances the aesthetics of the legs but also contributes to improved function and overall quality of life.
Minimal Disruption: Patients can usually return to their daily activities relatively quickly after the surgery, with minimal disruption to their routines.
Long-Term Results: Guided growth has been shown to provide long-lasting results, with many patients experiencing a significant improvement in leg alignment that persists into adulthood.
Who Can Benefit from Guided Growth?
Guided growth for bowed legs is typically recommended for children and adolescents whose legs exhibit a significant bowing that is unlikely to correct itself naturally. It is crucial to address this condition early to prevent potential complications and ensure the best possible outcome.
Candidates for guided growth may include:
- Children with Blount’s disease or other severe forms of bowed legs.
- Adolescents with persistent physiological bowing that has not improved with age.
- Individuals with underlying medical conditions contributing to bowed legs, such as rickets.
If you or your child is struggling with bowed legs, consult us to explore whether guided growth may be the right path to straighter limbs and a brighter future.