Lower limb mal-alignment as a result of fracture malunion can result in knee degenerative arthritis or predispose to early arthroplasty failure due to the altered mechanical axis. The choice of corrective osteotomy is often determined by potential complications. Opening wedge osteotomy is associated with poor bone healing especially in adult diaphyseal bone. Distraction osteogenesis enables gradual deformity correction with the gap filled by regenerate bone. Bone formation however is formed less favourably in the diaphysis and metaphyseal osteotomy is advised. We present a consecutive series of adult tibial diaphyseal correction using the Taylor Spatial Frame utilising the method of distraction osteogenesis. 15 adults, 11 male and 3 female, underwent tibial deformity correction. A mid diaphyseal osteotomy was made using minimal soft tissue dissection and an osteotome. The site was determined by the centre of rotation of angulation (CORA). After a 6 day latency period distraction was undertaken by the Taylor Spatial Frame. Patients were encouraged to fully weight bear throughout the treatment process. Following regenerate consolidation the frame was removed and a below knee weight bearing cast applied for 4 weeks.Introduction
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