Functional analysis of upper limb deformities in osteogenesis imperfecta

The charts and radiographs of 159 children with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) were retrospectively reviewed to measure the severity of upper limb deformities and to evaluate the functional outcome using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). The patients were classified according to the Sillence classification modified by Glorieux: 51 type 1, 33 type 3, 54 type 4, and 21 5ype 5. Fifty-nine patients (37.1%) had deformities of their upper limbs. Children with type 3 OI had the highest incidence and the most severe deformities. The humerus was the most commonly involved bone, followed by the ulna and radius. Upper limb deformities were classified into four groups according to the severity of the maximum deformity angle. The mean self-care scores of PEDI were significantly low only in the group with severe deformities, but mobility scores were dramatically decreased in both the moderate and severe deformity groups. Therefore, upper limb deformities in children with OI do not represent only a cosmetic problem, but may also significantly impair functional activities of daily living.