Three-dimensional corrective osteotomy for treatment of cubitus varus after supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children

Cubitus varus deformity after supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children generally includes deformities of varus, hyperextension, and internal rotation. Presently almost all corrective osteotomies for treatment of cubitus varus deformity have been limited to correction of only the varus or of the varus and hyperextension deformity. Electromyographic study and stick picture motion analysis have revealed unphysiological joint motion and muscle activity around the joint in elbows with cubitus varus, hyperextension, and internal rotation deformity. On this basis we have successfully attempted simultaneous correction of all three deformities. The end results in 41 elbows have been satisfactory. In conclusion, we recommend simultaneous correction of the three elements of cubitus varus deformity to restore anatomic alignment of the elbow joint.