Orthopaedic manifestations of Rett syndrome.

We reviewed nine patients with Rett syndrome, a progressive encephalopathy that is being diagnosed more frequently in the United States. It occurs in females, causing mental deterioration, autistic behavior, and classic hand-wringing motion. The orthopaedic manifestations include scoliosis, lower extremity contracture, and coxa valga. Bracing and surgery are indicated to prevent or correct deformity and maintain ambulation.