The skeletal system manifestations of thalassemia are characterized by severe osteoporosis, frequent fractures and delayed healing. Permanent deformity and disability can complicate the fractures. Surgical correction of deformity by osteotomy of severely osteoporotic bone and immobilization without internal fixation was successful in a 20-year-old woman. While operative correction of deformity is not routinely recommended, the good experience with this case suggests that similar orthopedic procedures can be included in the treatment of thalassemia.
