title: Selective hemiepiphyseodesis for patellar instability with associated genu valgum.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Patellar instability limits activity and promotes arthritis. Correcting genu valgum with selective hemiepiphyseodesis can treat patellar instability.
  
  
  METHODS
  We retrospectively reviewed 26 knees with patellar instability and associated genu valgum that underwent hemiepiphyseodesis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Average anatomic lateral distal femoral angle (aLDFA) significantly corrected. Symptoms improved in all patients. All competitive athletes returned to sports. One complication occurred.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In genu valgum, the patella seeks an abnormal mechanical axis, resulting in patellar instability. By correcting the mechanical axis with hemiepiphyseodesis, patellar instability symptoms improve and patients return to sports. Complications are rare. Selective hemiepiphyseodesis is recommended when treating patellar instability with associated genu valgum.
authors.affiliation: Womack Army Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Fort Bragg, NC 28310, United States.
authors.forename: Sean P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Kearney
authors.affiliation: Seattle Children's Hospital, W-7706-Orthopaedics Administration, Seattle, WA 98105, United States.
authors.forename: Vincent S
authors.initials: VS
authors.lastname: Mosca
keywords: Epiphyseodesis; Genu valgum; Guided growth; Patellar instability
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