title: Results of a bone splint technique for the treatment of lower limb deformities in children with type I osteogenesis imperfecta.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Children with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) can suffer from frequent fractures and limb deformities, resulting in impaired ambulation. Osteopenia and thin cortices complicate orthopedic treatment in this group. This study evaluates the clinical results of a bone splint technique for the treatment of lower limb deformities in children with type I OI. The technique consists of internal plating combined with cortical strut allograft fixation.
  
  
  METHODS
  We prospectively followed nine children (five boys, four girls) with lower limb deformities due to type I OI, who had been treated with the bone splint technique (11 femurs, four tibias) between 2003 and 2006. The fracture healing time, deformity improvement, ambulation ability and complications were recorded to evaluate treatment effects.
  
  
  RESULTS
  At the time of surgery the average age in our study was 7.7 years (range 5-12 years). The average length of followup was 69 months (range 60-84 months). All patients had good fracture healing with an average healing time of 14 weeks (range 12-16 weeks) and none experienced further fractures, deformity, or nonunion. The fixation remained stable throughout the procedure in all cases, with no evidence of loosening or breakage of screws and the deformity and mobility significantly improved after surgery. Of the two children confined to bed before surgery, one was able to walk on crutches and the other needed a wheelchair. The other seven patients could walk without walking aids or support like crutches.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These findings suggest that the bone splint technique provides good mechanical support and increases the bone mass. It is an effective treatment for children with OI and lower limb deformities.
authors: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Affiliated Southeast Hospital of Xiamen University, Orthopedic Center of People's Liberation Army, Zhangzhou - 363000, China.
authors: Dasheng
authors: D
authors: Lin
authors: Wenliang
authors: W
authors: Zhai
authors: Kejian
authors: K
authors: Lian
authors: Zhenqi
authors: Z
authors: Ding
keywords: Cortical strut allograft; internal fixation; osteogenesis imperfecta
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