The Use of Distraction Osteogenesis and a Taylor Spatial Frame in the Treatment of a Tibial Shaft Nonunion and Deformity in a Pediatric Patient with Osteopetrosis: A Case Report

CASE: Osteopetrosis is a heritable disease that causes brittle bones that are prone to fracture. Furthermore, these brittle bones have a poor healing response and a high risk of subsequent refracture. Many treatment strategies have been described for initial fracture stabilization; however, there is a paucity of literature describing treatment of refractures and subsequent deformity. We present the long-term results of a unique case in which we used a circular external fixator, the TAYLOR SPATIAL FRAME (Smith & Nephew), to correct a deformity in a patient with osteopetrosis who suffered multiple refractures of the tibia. CONCLUSION: We propose the potential use of distraction osteogenesis as an option for fracture and deformity treatment in patients with osteopetrosis.