Free Paper Session: Femoral Offset Angle: Correction of Congenital Distributed (Multi-Apical) Deformity of the Femur Utilizing a Novel Technique

Description

In this presentation, Roger Atkins discusses the femoral offset angle, an important factor in orthopedic surgery relating to the correction of femoral deformities. He shares insights from his extensive 40-year experience, beginning with earlier research published in 1993, which includes observations from normal femurs and various cases of distributed deformities. Atkins explains the significance of the proximal femoral straight segment and its connection to the femoral offset angle, emphasizing that the angle for inserting a retrograde femoral nail should be based on the mechanical axis rather than the traditional anatomic lateral distal femoral angle. He provides evidence that no femur is perfectly straight, noting common proximal varus and distal valgus in normal femurs, which contradicts conventional measurement practices. Ultimately, he highlights that using incorrect angles in surgical procedures can lead to significant mechanical misalignment, urging for a reevaluation of existing methods. The presentation concludes with practical guidance on how to measure the correct femoral offset angle—a step intended for future integration with computer-aided surgical techniques.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221803

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