LOWER LIMB SOFT TISSUE RELEASE IN CHILDREN WITH DUCHENNE DE BOULOGNE DISEASE: 12 YEARS FOLLOW-UP

Introduction: The progression of Duchenne de Boulogne disease, coupled with growth leads to contractures consisting of an asymmetric flexion of the pelvis and knees and equinovarus of both feet. Once these can no longer be managed conservatively surgery becomes necessary.Material & Methods: Thirty four boys who were on average of 11 years old underwent releases of significant hip flexion (av.32°), knee flexion (av.34°) contractures and 20° of foot equinus. These contractures prevented the patients from standing and walking. Per and postoperative epidural anaesthesia was used for the surgical procedures and post-operative splints were not used. On the third post-operative day the patients were transferred to a Paediatric Rehabilitation Centre where progressive skin traction, passive mobilization and postural splinting were used. The patients soon progressed to an upright position. The mean length of time in the specialized Centre was nine and a half weeks.Results: With a follow-up of 12 years, 15 patients ...