[Experience with temporary epiphyseodesis after Blount (author's transl)].

The article reports on the results of follow-up esaminations of 57 children in whom temporary epiphysiodesis according to Blount had been performed on account of differences in leg length and because of angular deformities. Numerous complications were revealed during the evaluation of the results, which had to be subdivided into pure clasp complications such as fracture of the clasps, and secondary consequences. Formation of a genu recurvatum was particularly frequent, as well as the development of genu valgum and varum, ligamental insufficiencies, and ugly scars. Although in some cases the preoperatively existing average length was difference 31 mm only, the desired equalisation could not be completely achieved. The article discusses the authors' own errors which contributed to the failures, and lists the results of other authors who had observed similar complications. On the whole, basing on the authors' own experience and on the reports available from other hospitals, it is concluded that temporary epiphysiodesis after Blount should be performed in few exceptional cases only, observing all precautionary measures, if equalisation of differences in leg length is the actual aim of the procedure. However, it is also concluded that the method is suitable for treating relatively pronounced axis deviations provided the children are subjected to regular and reliable post-operative followups.