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Varus Deformity

This is where the neck - shaft angle of the femur is reduced.

The patient's leg may be shorter, the range of outward movement may be reduced, and there may be pain on walking or weightbearing.

Varus deformity of the femur is typically found in patients who have had Perthes' disease or a proximal femoral growth disturbance associated with infection, dislocation or avascular necrosis.

The varus deformity of the femur can be corrected by a valgus osteotomy.

Rotational Deformities

Of all problems of the upper femur, the most commonly presented is abnormal anteversion - an abnormal rotational relationship between the upper and lower ends of the femur.

This could be reflected in the foot lying predominantly turned outwards or inwards.

Where necessary this condition can be treated by a rotation osteotomy, precision guided, by pre-operative CT scans.

Valgus Deformity

Valgus deformity of the femur is where the neck - shaft angle is increased, and where the femoral neck is unduly straight.

It is most commonly discovered in patients who have hip dislocation or hip dysplasia, and is frequently accompanied by increased femoral neck anteversion (see Rotational Deformities).

Valgus deformity of the femur is not always symptomatic and if it co-exists with a shallow hip socket or acetabular dysplasia, the operation likely to give the best outcome is treatment of the socket and not of the femur.

If the valgus deformity is severe it may be necessary to perform a Varus Osteotomy

More Complex Deformities of the hip

Occasionally patients present where there is a very complex abnormality of the proximal femur with a very short neck, a very high trochanter and such disorganisation that none of the "usual" operations would provide for a restoration of normal anatomy.

These patients can sometimes be helped by a modified "Wagner" double osteotomy of the femur. (See Femoral Osteotomies)

Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis - S.U.F.E.

This condition affects the young while their bones are still growing. It occurs where the growth plate at the upper end of the femur de-couples and the head of the femur slips backwards and downwards. The leg tends to be in a position of twisting outwards (particularly when sitting).