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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 1999; 3(3): 227-237
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1080068
© 1999 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Fibular Hemimelia: More Than Just An Absent Bone

Lynn A. Fordham1 , 4 , Kimberly E. Applegate2 , David C. Wilkes3 , Charles J. Chung4
  • 1Pediatric Imaging Section, Department of Radiology University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
  • 2Section of Pediatric Radiology, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio
  • 3Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, 222 Welborn Street, Dallas, Texas
  • 4Pediatric Imaging Section, Department of Radiology University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Publication History

Publication Date:
18 June 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Fibular hemimelia is a congenital deficiency or absence of the fibula. There is a spectrum of disease from mild fibular hypoplasia to fibular aplasia. The ipsilateral tibia may be hypoplastic, bowed or normal. Fibular hemimelia can be an isolated deformity of the lower leg but frequently it is associated with proximal focal femoral deficiency, deficiencies of the lateral aspect of the foot, or is part of a malformation syndrome. In this article, we review the embryology of the extremities, discuss proposed etiologies for fibular hemimelia, highlight associated abnormalities, and present the radiographic and imaging findings. Surgical treatment options and long-term outcomes are discussed.

KEYWORDS

Skeleton/bone - developmental anomaly - pediatric - fibula - fibular hemimelia - ectromelia - imaging