Limb Lengthening

What is Limb Lengthening Surgery?

Limb Lengthening Surgery is a medical procedure designed to increase the length of a person’s limbs, typically the legs. This surgical intervention is often sought by individuals who wish to address conditions such as limb length discrepancies, congenital short stature, or for cosmetic reasons.

Limb
Lengthening

Ilizarov Fixator Method

Process

External Fixator: Utilizes a circular external fixator with thin wires and rings to secure the bone.
Osteotomy: The bone is surgically fractured (osteotomy) and then gradually lengthened by adjusting the fixator.
Lengthening Schedule: Lengthening starts 7-10 days after surgery, with increments of 1 mm per day, divided into four sessions.

Recovery

Hospital Stay: Initial hospital stay is 7-10 days, which may extend for more complicated cases.
Full Recovery: Full recovery and removal of the apparatus depend on the extent of lengthening but usually involve several months.
Physiotherapy: Crucial for maintaining muscle strength and joint flexibility during recovery.

Pros

Correction of Deformities: Can correct complex deformities and significant length discrepancies.
Controlled Lengthening: Allows for adjustment and control over the lengthening process.
Reduced Infection Risk: Does not require internal implants, reducing the risk of deep infections.

Precice 2 Nails Method

Process

Telescopic Intramedullary Nail: Features a telescopic intramedullary nail, extended remotely through magnetic interaction.
Surgical Insertion: Inserted surgically into the bone, lengthening starts post-operatively, controlled by an external remote controller.
Precise Adjustments: Precise adjustments allow for controlled bone elongation.

Recovery

Minimal Scarring: Minimal external scarring and lower risk of infection due to the internal nature of the device.
Rehabilitation Focus: Recovery and physiotherapy focus on regaining mobility and strength, with the timeline varying based on individual progress.
Guidelines for Activity: Walking and weight-bearing guidelines are provided based on the consolidation of the lengthened bone.

Pros

Less Pain and Discomfort: Less pain and discomfort compared to external fixation methods.
Freedom of Movement: Allows for greater freedom of movement during the lengthening phase.
High Precision: High precision in lengthening, with a more aesthetic outcome due to the lack of external scars.

LON Method (Lengthening Over Nail)

Process

Combined Fixation: Combines an external fixator with an internal intramedullary nail for bone stability.
Osteotomy and Support: Osteotomy is performed, and as the bone is lengthened via the external fixator, the internal nail provides support.
Lengthening Schedule: Lengthening is typically 1 mm per day, adjusted daily.

Recovery

Fixator Removal: An external fixator is removed 2.5-3 months post-surgery; total recovery includes several months of supported walking.
Consolidation Phase: The consolidation phase allows the bone to harden and strengthen.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy is essential for regaining full mobility.

Pros

Supported Walking: Supported walking is possible even with the external fixator.
Stability and Comfort: Offers a more stable and comfortable lengthening process than external fixation alone.
Accelerated Healing: The internal nail helps speed up the consolidation phase.