Degree and frequency of rotational deformities after infant femoral fractures and their spontaneous correction.

Based on 124 radiographic follow up results of infant femoral fractures the degree and frequency of a rotational deformity in relation to the fracture site and the therapeutical method are demonstrated and the reasons for the differences are discussed. The varying results of the follow up study and a repeated examination 4-6 years later confirm the assumption that the infant skeleton is able to correct even posttraumatic rotational deformities of the femur. The shape of the proximal femoral portion reveals that the correction takes place within the femoral stem rather than by torsion in the area of the femoral neck.