Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Tibia

Also known as: CPT.

What is congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia?

The tibia is the inner bone of the two bones that make up the lower leg and connect the ankle to the knee. And a pseudoarthrosis is a bone fracture that fails to heal properly on its own. When this pseudoarthrosis of the tibia is present at birth, it is known as congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia and can cause a variety of other complications over time.

What causes congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia?

The exact cause of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia is not entirely clear. One theory is that after the fracture occurs, there is a lack of blood supply to the periosteum (the periosteum makes up the outer layer of bones and promotes healing after a fracture.) This lack of blood supply results in scar tissue covering the bone and hinders the healing of the fracture.

What are the symptoms of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia?

Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia can be a frustrating and challenging condition for parents, children, and care providers. It can lead to problems with mobility and proper growth of the limb. Even after a treatment to heal or fuse the fractured bone, the likelihood of a fracture occurring again is high.

What are congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia care options?

In most cases of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia, a surgical union of the fractured bone is needed and is attempted. Though the results of this procedure are improving with newer technologies, the weakened bone will often fracture again. Congenital pseudarthrosis can be a very challenging condition to treat. In some cases, the best option for the child may be an amputation with prosthetic fitting to maximize function.


Reviewed by: Scott J Schoenleber, MD

This page was last updated on: October 14, 2020 02:42 PM

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