Temporary hemiepiphysiodesis of the distal medial femur: MPFL in danger

Abstract

Introduction: Temporary hemiepiphysiodesis (TH) with plate fixation is a well-accepted and common treatment for correcting leg malalignment in skeletally immature patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate any soft tissue damage caused during TH at the distal medial femur with a plate and two screws. We hypothesized that correct plate placement can affect the integrity of the medial stabilizing structures of the knee, especially the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL), the medial collateral ligament (MCL) or result in arthrotomy of the knee joint itself.Materials and methods: In eight cadaveric knees of five adult humans a TH was performed with a plate and two cancellous screws..