Acute Deformity Correction Using an Osteotomy

Acute correction following an osteotomy involves a single-stage correction of the skeletal deformity. Such correction is typically more suitable for mild to moderately severe uniplanar deformities in young children. The correction is usually performed at the metaphysis or closer to the apex of the deformity and is not associated with a substantial change in limb length. However, the greater healing potential in a child allows for small amounts of simultaneous lengthening or shortening. A minor residual deformity is often corrected by remodeling unless the deforming forces persist or the function of the adjacent growth plate is compromised. Acute correction is generally preferred to gradual correction in children due to the shorter treatment periods and time away from school. Such correction is also preferred near sites like the hip and foot, where external fixation devices are poorly tolerated. However, simultaneous shortening may be required to avoid the risk of compartment syndrome or neurovascular compromise when used for larger magnitudes of correction.