Multiple osteotomies and intramedullary nailing with neck cross-pinning for shepherd's crook deformity in polyostotic fibrous dysplasia: 7 femurs with a minimum of 2 years follow-up

Abstract

Background In polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, particularly in lesions of the proximal femur, pathological fracture and coxa vara deformity (including shepherd's crook deformity) are likely to develop and progress. Patients and methods In 7 femurs with shepherd's crook deformity (5 patients), we performed intramedullary nailing by using multiple osteotomies and two screws crossing the femoral neck. Results Restoration of the neck shaft angle of the femur was obtained from an average of 92° prior to surgery to 129° after surgery. During the minimum 2-year follow up, no loss of neck shaft angle of the femur and no refracture occurred. All patients were able to return to normal activities of daily living. Interpretation In polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, multiple osteotomies and intramedullary nailing with neck cross-pinning can be used to correct developed or progressing shepherd's crook deformity, and to prevent recurrence and refracture.