Limb Lengthening & Shortening
Limb lengthening and shortening treatments are orthopedic surgical procedures used to correct discrepancies in the length of the limbs. These treatments can address congenital conditions, growth plate injuries, and other medical conditions that result in uneven limb lengths, which can affect a person's gait, posture, and overall mobility.
Limb Lengthening
Indications:
- Congenital Limb Deficiencies: Conditions present at birth that result in shorter limbs.
- Growth Plate Injuries: Damage to the growth plate can result in one limb being shorter than the other.
- Post-Traumatic Shortening: Following severe fractures or bone infections.
- Other Medical Conditions: Such as achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism).
Procedure:
- Osteotomy: The bone to be lengthened is surgically cut.
- Application of an External Fixator: Devices like the Ilizarov apparatus or other modern internal devices (e.g., Precice nail) are used to gradually separate the bone segments.
- Distraction Phase: The bone segments are slowly moved apart (usually about 1 millimeter per day) to allow new bone to form in the gap.
- Consolidation Phase: Once the desired length is achieved, the new bone is allowed to harden and mature. This phase can take several months.
- Device Removal: Once the bone is fully healed, the fixator or internal device is removed.
Limb Shortening
Indications:
- Overgrowth Conditions: Where one limb is significantly longer than the other.
- Discrepancy Management: When shortening the longer limb is more feasible or desirable than lengthening the shorter limb.
Procedure:
- Bone Resection: A portion of the bone is surgically removed.
- Bone Fixation: The remaining bone ends are aligned and fixed using plates, screws, or rods to ensure proper healing.
- Rehabilitation: Post-surgery, patients undergo physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Both limb lengthening and shortening procedures require a comprehensive rehabilitation program to ensure successful outcomes. This typically includes:
- Physical Therapy: To improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Regular Monitoring: Frequent follow-up visits to monitor bone healing and adjust any external devices if necessary.
- Pain Management: Medications and other therapies to manage pain and discomfort.
If you would like to have additional information contact Dr. Vipul Shet, serving communities and people from all walks of live.
