Limb Lengthening Devices
External fixators and internal fixators are the two categories of devices that are accessible to patients after surgery. Connecting the external devices to the bone can be accomplished through the use of wires or threaded pins. The internal devices are implanted either on the bone or within the bone marrow, depending on the location of the device.
Limb Lengthening Process
- The Operation Phase
In order to acquire access to the portion of the bone that is going to be cut during surgery, a minor incision is carried out. Following the completion of rehabilitation and the application of splints, the patient may be required to remain in the hospital for one to three days.
- Distraction Phase
Following the procedure, bone lengthening starts a few days or weeks later. Using external fixators, the patient or a family member applies pressure to the leg or makes tiny twists. Between the ends of the bones, new bone slowly begins to develop when the bones are pulled apart. Growth typically occurs at a pace of 1 mm each day. To check for new bone growth, nerve and muscle function, and to prevent any further issues, X-rays are taken every two to three weeks.
- Consolidation Phase
Once the gadget reaches the desired length, all modifications are terminated. The newly produced bone is fragile and prone to breaking without internal or external support. Lengthening over nails, or LON, is an external tool. It stays in the bone until the distraction phase. An internal rod is inserted to provide support at the end of the bone following the removal of LON. New bone is hardened by the rod. When the specified length is reached, the internal device’s operation immediately ends. The X-rays are taken once a month to assess bone repair. The X-ray reveals how much calcium is in the bone. Once the bone has healed, the rods are taken out.
- Fixator Removal Phase
The external fixator device can be removed while the patient is awake or while under general anesthesia. Plaster of Paris (POP) casts are applied for a month to provide protection after removal. Patients with an internal fixator device do not require a cast since the internal support preserves the bone.
Complications of Limb Lengthening Surgery
Possible Bone Complications:
Delay in union or nonunion: The damage to bone tissues that occurs during bone cutting causes a delay in the healing process of the bone.
When the bone heals quickly or in abundance, a condition known as premature consolidation might develop.
Axial Deviation: The axial deviation is a condition that arises as a result of uneven forces that cause the bone to bend during the process of lengthening.
Possible Soft Tissue Complications:
Muscle contractures: This condition is known as muscle contractures, and it takes place when the soft tissues are unable to adjust to the variations in bone length.
Passive stretching and soft tissue mobilization: Pain medications should be given thirty minutes before therapy in order to lessen discomfort. Passive stretching and soft tissue mobilization are two techniques that can be used.
Muscle weakness: The inability to walk normally is the root cause of muscle weakness, which is characterized by a lack of movement occurrence.
Nerve Injuries: This happens when particular nerves do not expand in synchronization with the bone lengthening. Nerve irritation can also occur.
Who is eligible to undergo limb lengthening and deformity repair?
Patients are strongly urged to undergo limb lengthening and deformity treatment if they have bones that are characterized by the following:
- Significant difference in the length of the limbs
- Broken bones
- Non-unionized bones
- Fixations that were unsuccessful
Both trauma and defects can be the cause of many illnesses, and the severity of these conditions can vary. This particular subspecialty of orthopaedics also encompasses a wide variety of therapies for bones that are unable to mend, have formed or healed improperly, or have develop an infection. Cases involving patients who have undergone many treatments, such as bone grafts, yet have not shown proper healing are included in this category.
Why should you choose FixTheHeight and Turkey to reach your dream height?
At our clinic, we pride ourselves on our expertise in limb lengthening surgery Turkey, Our team of highly skilled orthopedic surgeons and medical professionals have extensive experience in performing limb lengthening surgeries and providing comprehensive care throughout the entire treatment journey.
In closing, if the idea of increasing your height has always intrigued you, cosmetic height surgery might hold the key. Armed with the insights from this article, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision. Remember, success lies in diligent research, expert consultations, and a clear understanding of the possibilities this journey can offer.