Valgus deformity

Valgus deformity
Classification and external resources
Valgus Deformity MRI and photograph
ICD-10	M21.0

In orthopedics, a valgus deformity is a term for outward angulation of the distal segment of a bone or joint. The opposite deformation, medial deviation of the distal bone, is called varus.

The terms varus and valgus always refer to the direction that the distal segment of the joint points.

For a discussion of the etymology of these words, see the entry under varus.

Common causes of Valgus Knee in adults include arthritis of the knee and trauma.

Knee arthritis with valgus knee

Rheumatoid knee commonly presents as valgus knee. Osteoarthritis knee may also sometimes present with valgus deformity though varus deformity is common. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to correct valgus deformity is surgically difficult and requires specialized implants called constrained condylar knees.

Examples

• Hip: coxa valga (from Latin coxa = hip) — the shaft of the femur is bent outward in respect to the neck of the femur. Coxa vara on the other hand is a reverse of above where the neck-shaft angle is reduced (from nearly 135).
• Knee: genu valgum (from Latin genu = knee) — the tibia is turned outward in relation to the femur, resulting in a knock-kneed appearance.
• Ankle: talipes valgus (from Latin talus = ankle and Greek pes = foot) — outward turning of the heel, resulting in clubfoot with the person walking on the inner part of the foot.
• Toe: hallux valgus (Latin hallux = big toe) — outward deviation of the big toe toward the second toe.
• Elbows: cubitus valgus (Latin cubitus = elbow) — turned-in elbows
• Hand: 'Manus valgus; manus - latin for hand

See also

• Varus deformity