Corrective dome osteotomy using the paratricipital (triceps-sparing) approach for cubitus varus deformity in children

Background: Dome osteotomy has been described extensively in literature to correct posttraumatic cubitus varus deformity in children. Most case series on dome osteotomy using the posterior triceps-splitting approach report a decreased postoperative range of motion (ROM). We prospectively analyzed the results of dome osteotomy using the soft-tissue preserving paratricipital, (triceps-sparing) approach with respect to correction of deformity and preservation of elbow ROM. Methods: During 2006 to 2009, 24 children with cubitus varus deformity after supracondylar humerus fracture were treated with a dome osteotomy using the triceps-sparing approach. The follow-up period varied between 22 and 36 months (average, 27.6 mo). The average interval between injury to surgery was 26.7 months. The average age of the patients was 9.2 years. Results: The average preoperative carrying angle (humerus-elbow-wrist angle, HEW) was-17.1 degrees (range,-8 to-30 degrees), whereas the average postoperative carrying (humerus-elbow-wrist) angle was +11.7 degrees (range,-12 to +16 degrees) with a mean correction of 28.8 degrees. The average preoperative ROM in the flexion/extension arc was 126.8 degrees and the average postoperative ROM was 132.1 degrees (range, 110 to 140 degrees). The lateral condylar prominence index changed from an average of-9.5% preoperatively to an average of-15.2% postoperatively. Excellent results were seen in 14 patients, whereas 9 had a good outcome. Conclusions: Supracondylar humeral dome osteotomy using the paratricipital approach for cubitus varus deformity allows correction of deformity, prevents lateral condylar prominence and avoids loss of elbow motion.Level of Evidence: IV.