Congenital aplasia and dysplasia of the tibia with intact fibula. Classification and management.

We have reviewed congenital aplasia or dysplasia of the tibia with intact fibula in twenty children (twenty-nine limbs). We have described four morphological groups and four radiological types, and have proposed the clinical and radiological features which in early infancy distinguish these varieties, which vary in their prognosis. We regard accurate diagnosis to be of the utmost importance in planning future treatment, both in order that unnecessarily proximal amputations or unrewarding operations designed to preserve the foot may be avoided, and that an opportunity to preserve a functioning knee may not be missed.