One-stage surgical correction of Shepherd's crook deformity in fibrous dysplasia using fibular strut allograft augmentation: a retrospective case-series.

PURPOSE

Shepherd's crook deformity is a characteristic complication of fibrous dysplasia (FD) of the femur, leading to coxa vara and mechanical instability. Two-stage surgical approaches involve initial valgus osteotomy followed by delayed intramedullary femoral stabilization, prolonged treatment, and increasing morbidity. This study evaluates a one-stage surgical correction that employs fibular strut allograft augmentation for both the femoral neck and shaft.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on 17 patients with Shepherd's crook deformity who underwent one-stage hip lag screw and side plate fixation with fibular strut allograft augmentation of the femoral neck and shaft between 2002 and 2022. Radiographic and clinical outcomes were assessed, including neck-shaft angle (NSA) restoration, fixation stability, graft incorporation, and functional improvement. The median follow-up of the patients was 96 months.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative NSA was 93° (SD: 13.5°), improving significantly to 130° (SD: 5°) at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). Stable fixation was achieved in 16 of 17 patients, with one case of fixation failure. Fibular graft resorption was noted in six patients but did not compromise fixation. Clinically, postoperative pain, limping, and activity limitations improved substantially, though seven patients experienced persistent restrictions in outdoor activities. The average limb shortening was 3.5 cm before the operation and 0.9 cm at the end of the follow-up.

CONCLUSION

One-stage correction of Shepherd's crook deformity using lag hip screw fixation and fibular strut allograft augmentation could be a viable alternative to staged procedures, though further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and generalizability.