Remodeling of the proximal femur after varus osteotomy.

The purpose of this study was to measure the remodeling of the proximal femur after varus osteotomy and to determine the factors that may affect the degree of angular correction. In addition, we wanted to determine the degree of remodeling over time. One hundred nine varus proximal osteotomies were performed on 66 children with hip dysplasia. Neck-shaft angles were measured on preoperative, immediate postoperative, and follow-up radiographs. Remodeling of the proximal femur occurred after varus osteotomy as long as the physes of the proximal femur continued growing. Patients' remodeling varied widely; however, gender, ambulatory status, and original diagnosis had little effect on the magnitude of remodeling. Results from this study reinforce the need to follow patients with periodic hip radiographs until growth is complete.