The spectrum of tibial pseudarthrosis with constriction band syndrome in children

OBJECTIVE Constriction band syndrome (CBS) may be rarely associated with pseudarthrosis of tibia. Published literature includes only case reports. We evaluated the outcome of children with frank pseudarthrosis of the tibia with CBS and compared our results with other reported cases. We aimed to formulate a clinical classification of tibial involvement in CBS on the basis of the treatment guidelines. MATERIAL AND METHODS Seven patients with the presence of one or more constriction bands and radiological signs of tibial pseudarthrosis were included in the study. Eight reported cases of CBS with tibial involvement with management and follow-up details were reviewed. RESULTS Only two tibial pseudarthrosis united spontaneously after the release of the constriction band. Two patients underwent simultaneous correction of tibial deformity and nailing with band release, one of which needed bone grafting for the pseudarthrosis union. Three patients subsequently needed an excision of tibial pseudarthrosis with nailing to achieve tibial union, two of them had autologous bone grafting along with nailing. Additional procedures were required for the correction of foot deformity and limb length discrepancy. Our findings were similar to the reported cases. CONCLUSION The pseudarthrosis of the tibia with CBS does not always heal following band release. Additional surgeries may be required for persistent pseudarthrosis, limb length discrepancy and residual foot deformities. A functional and radiological classification is proposed for the treatment of tibial pseudarthrosis with CBS.