French pediatric orthopedics has profoundly influenced global surgery through its approach based on an understanding of growth, biomechanical rigor, and the pursuit of simple, safe, and teachable techniques. On the occasion of the SOFCOT centenary, the SOFOP board pays tribute to these innovations that have become international references.

The French school distinguished itself by first seeking to measure in order to treat better, with Duval-Beaupère’s work on the evolution of scoliosis, Hechard and Carlioz’s growth tables, Mallet’s functional score for obstetric palsy, and Diméglio’s classification for clubfoot. It also initiated major technical advances such as low-dose biplanar radiography, opening the way for precise 3D imaging. Innovation was also grounded in using growth as an ally: Métaizeau’s percutaneous epiphysiodesis, Bollini’s physeal distraction, or Bérard’s screw for slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Similarly, the management of congenital hip dislocation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease demonstrates a balance between correction and biological preservation.

In traumatology, France set universal standards: Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing (Métaizeau, Ligier, Lascombes), Judet’s percutaneous pinning for supracondylar humeral fractures, and Bouyala’s technique for neglected Monteggia lesions. In spinal surgery, the major contributions of Cotrel and Dubousset, the Stagnara wake-up test, the concept of sagittal balance, and the use of sublaminar bands redefined three-dimensional scoliosis correction.

Finally, advances in functional reconstruction (Gilbert, Carlioz, Oberlin) and biological reconstruction (Masquelet) extend this pursuit of efficacy and humanity. This legacy reminds us that innovation in pediatric orthopedics is born from careful observation of the child, respect for growth, and the sharing of knowledge—to accompany the child toward adulthood.

V; narrative review.