Congenital genu recurvatum in northern Togo: Clinical challenges and lessons from two cases

Abstract

Background: Congenital genu recurvatum is an uncommon neonatal deformity, ranging from simple hyperextension to true congenital dislocation of the knee. We report a descriptive case series of two female newborns with congenital genu recurvatum managed in a regional hospital in northern Togo. Case Report: The first newborn presented with isolated unilateral genu recurvatum, with preserved femorotibial congruence on radiographs, consistent with Leveuf and Pais type A. Early conservative treatment combining gentle passive mobilisation and serial casting in flexion led to initial improvement in knee flexion. The second newborn presented with severe bilateral genu recurvatum with limited passive flexion and radiological evidence of complete dislocation of both knees (Leveuf and Pais type C). Conservative management with progressive flexion and serial casting achieved partial correction, although follow-up was incomplete. Conclusion: These two observations illustrate the clinical spectrum of congenital genu recurvatum in a regional West African hospital and confirm that conservative management can be initiated even in severe forms.