BACKGROUND: Osteogenesis imperfecta is a rare inherited connective tissue disorder that is mainly characterized by long bone deformities and increased susceptibility to bone fractures. The aim of this study was to present a surgical technique in a child suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta and progressive, severe bowing deformity of both tibias, as an alternative method to advanced, innovative surgical systems.

CASE REPORT: A 9-year-old child (male) was referred to our orthopedic clinic for inability to walk independently due to extreme anterior bowing of both tibias. After the diagnosis of osteogenesis imperfecta type III was established, bilateral surgical treatment with multiple osteotomies and intramedullary, flexible Titanium Elastic Nail System (TENS) nails was decided. Six months post-operatively callus formation was obvious in x-rays and at the latest follow-up (1 year post-operatively) the patient regained the ability to walk independently.

CONCLUSIONS: In types of osteogenesis imperfecta which are characterized by extreme deformities (type III) surgical intervention seems to be the only solution for these patients to walk again. We present a relatively simple technique of correcting such deformities, indicating that no matter which technique will be used (simple or more complicated) the final goal should be to restore the walking ability with as little complications as possible.

Keywords: Bone Malalignment, Disabled Children, osteogenesis imperfecta, Osteotomy, Bone Nails, Child, Tibia, Titanium, Walking