What is Limb lengthening?
Limb lengthening is a surgical procedure used to increase the length of a bone in the arms or legs. This procedure is typically performed to correct limb length discrepancies (LLDs), where one limb is shorter than the other, or to address congenital conditions, injuries, or bone deformities that have resulted in limb shortening.
The limb lengthening process involves three main stages:
Limb lengthening procedures can be performed on the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), humerus (upper arm bone), or other bones in the arms or legs, depending on the specific needs of the patient. The lengthening process is typically slow and gradual, with the rate of lengthening controlled to minimize complications and ensure optimal healing.
Limb lengthening surgery recovery time?
The recovery time for limb lengthening surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the specific technique used, the extent of lengthening required, the patient’s overall health, and how well the patient follows post-operative instructions. However, in general, the recovery process can be divided into several phases:
Immediate Post-Operative Phase (Hospital Stay):
Consolidation Phase (Lengthening Period):
Healing and Rehabilitation Phase:
Device Removal:
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Limb lengthening surgery age limit?
The age limit for limb lengthening surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the type of procedure, the patient’s overall health, and the specific goals of the surgery. In general, limb lengthening surgery is most commonly performed on children and adolescents who are still growing, as their bones have the potential to regenerate and adapt to the lengthening process more effectively.