In the orthopedic context, valgus and varus are terms used to describe knee deformities that affect its alignment in the frontal plane.
Valgus refers to a condition where the knee deviates inward, resulting in a greater than normal distance between the ankles when the knees are together. There are various causes that can lead to this deformity, There are various causes that can lead to this deformity, such as ligament injuries, cartilage injuries and congenital or inflammatory changes.
On the other hand, varus is characterized by a deviation of the knee outward, resulting in a separation of the knees when the ankles are together. This condition can be primarily caused by joint wear, fractures, or changes resulting from normal skeletal growth.
If left untreated, both valgus and varus can lead to serious complications. One of the most common consequences is accelerated progression of joint cartilage wear, which can result in early osteoarthritis in the knees. Additionally, these deformities can increase the risk of other knee injuries, such as ligamentous and meniscal injuries, leading to rapid degradation of normal knee function.
In less severe cases, conservative treatment such as physiotherapy, strengthening exercises, and the use of orthotics may be sufficient to relieve symptoms and improve knee alignment. However, it is important to consult a specialized orthopedic surgeon to evaluate the best treatment approach for each specific case.
Surgical realignment for correcting frontal plane deformities of the knee is generally indicated when they are severe and significantly interfere with the patient’s function and quality of life. Surgical procedures may vary depending on the underlying cause of the deformity and may include osteotomies (controlled bone cutting for realignment), arthroscopic treatment, or knee arthroplasty replacement.
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