Management of khock-knees

Genu valgum, commonly called ‘khock-knees’ is a condition where the knees angle in and touch one another when the legs are straightened. Individuals with severe valgus deformities are typically unable to touch their feet together while simultaneously straightening the legs.

Mild genu valgum can be seen in children from 2-6, and is often corrected naturally as children grow. However, the condition may continue or worsen with age particularly when it is the results of a disease such as rickets or obesity. Genu valgum that is present since birth or has no known cause is called ‘Idiopathic genu valgum’.

As for treatment, there is no known cure for khock-knees after childhood. If the condition persists or worsens into late childhood and adulthood a corrective open wedge osteotomy of the thigh bones Ilizarov technique may be advised which is cosmetically fantastic. No hardware is needed for internal fixation, only one time surgery is needed. If it is not corrected, genu valgum in adulthood may lead to injury and long standing knee problems

.

The writer is an orthopaedic, trauma & reconstructive Surgon. E-mail: bari.ilizarov31@gmail.com