Cubitus Valgus — Causes, Clinical Presentation and Management
DNB Orthopaedics • May 2024 • Paper II • 10 Marks
Introduction
Cubitus valgus is an increase in the normal valgus alignment of the elbow, producing an exaggerated carrying angle when the elbow is extended and the forearm is supinated.
Mild physiological valgus is normal. Pathological cubitus valgus is usually an acquired deformity following childhood elbow injury, particularly nonunion or malunion of a lateral condyle fracture of the humerus.
Classic exam association: Cubitus valgus following lateral condyle nonunion → stretching of the ulnar nerve → tardy ulnar nerve palsy.
Carrying Angle
The carrying angle is the angle between the longitudinal axis of the arm and the longitudinal axis of the forearm when the elbow is fully extended and the forearm is supinated.
It is produced by the asymmetrical distal humeral geometry, particularly the relationship between the trochlea and capitellum.
| Feature | Normal / Physiological | Cubitus Valgus |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow alignment | Mild valgus | Exaggerated valgus |
| Clinical appearance | Forearm diverges slightly laterally | Marked lateral deviation of forearm |
| Main concern | None | Cosmesis, instability, tardy ulnar palsy |
Definition
Cubitus valgus is a deformity in which the carrying angle of the elbow is abnormally increased compared with the opposite…