THE TREATMENT OF KNEE JOINT INSTABILITY IN CONGENITAL LIMB DEFORMITIES

The defect in the formation and subsequent genesis of crossed ligaments manifests as knee joint instability and is accompanied by a range of consequences of congenital developmental disorders of the lower limbs. Objective. To analyze and summarize the knowledge and practical experience in treating children with knee joint instability due to congenital developmental disorders of the lower limbs at the Children’s Orthopedic Clinic of the State Institution «Institute of Spine and Joint Pathology named after Prof. M. I. Sytenko of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine». Methods. A prospective study was conducted on patients treated from 2019 to 2024, with a retrospective control group (32 healthy children) treated from 2008 to 2019. Results. Surgical intervention was performed using the classical SUPER knee procedure. Our team identified shortcomings and therefore added the Yamamoto procedure, as well as a combination of the Yamamoto procedure and tibial tuberosity transfer to improve treatment outcomes. Additionally, to correct moderate axis deformities of the limb, the method of hemiepiphysiodesis using our patented metal construction and instrumentation was preferred. Adequate rehabilitation treatment is a key stage in restoring knee joint function, as it reduces the risk of complications such as joint contractures and stagnant vascular manifestations in the lower limbs. Conclusions. Early and high-quality surgical treatment allows for the prevention of knee joint instability and enhances its functional capabilities. The modifications made to the SUPER knee procedure have improved knee joint stability in the postoperative period compared to the classical technique, as evidenced by the absence of medial instability and a lower degree of anterior displacement. Comprehensive treatment increases the functionality of the knee joints and reduces further degenerative changes, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life.