Fibular Hemimelia: More Than Just An Absent Bone

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.