Modified Step - cut Osteotomy of Distal Humerus for the Correction of Cubitus Varus Deformity

Yun, Yeo Hon

Abstract

Some modifications of the step-cut osteotomy for the correction of cubitus varus are described. It involves a 90 step-cut on the proximal humeral fragment after the initial transverse osteotomy; the distal fragment is translated medially to avoid an unsightly lateral condylar prominence at the elbow; and the osteotomy was fixated using two crossed pins with additional tension band wires or a plate and screws. Ten patients were treated by this method with uniform success. They were followed up for at least one year. The preoperative humeral-elbow-wrist (HEW) angle averaged -17.9. The final HEW angle averaged 8.6. No loss of correction or motion occurred. Complication was a transient ulnar neurapraxia. All of the patients were satisfied with the excellent cosmetic results. The author recommends this modification of the step-cut osteotomy as safe and effective.