In a review of thirty-four fractures through the distal femoral
epiphyseal plate followed for an average of four years, limb-length
discrepancy of 2.0 centimeters or more (measured roentgenographically)
occurred in 36% and varus or valgus deformity measured as a difference of 5
degrees or more between the involved and uninvolved extremities occurred in
33%. Reconstructive procedures (osteotomy, epiphyseodesis, or both) were
required in 20%. Limitation of knee motion (eleven patients), ligament
laxity (eight patients), and quadriceps atrophy (five patients) were also
observed. Prognoses made on the basis of the Salter-Harris classification
alone were not reliable. The development of deformity appears to be related
to the degree of initial displacement of the fracture, the exactness of the
reduction, and the type of fracture.