ORTHOPEDIC PROBLEMS IN DOWNS-SYNDROME

We review 65 patients with Down's syndrom and analyse their orthopedic problems. Their main problems are instability of the upper cervical s pine, scoliosis, dislocation of the hip and patella, pes planus and ha llux val gus or varus. The vast majority of these problems are not con genital but developmental, depending on the ligamentous laxity which i s inherent in this disease. We recommend that orthopedic examination s hould be part of regular routine screening in these patients in order to prevent serious complications.