Limb Lengthening
Limb lengthening is a surgical procedure that is performed to increase the length of a person’s arms or legs. This is typically done to address issues related to stature, deformities, or limb length inequality.
Types of Limb Lengthening
- External Fixation: In this method, an external device, such as the Ilizarov frame, is attached to the limb. The device allows controlled adjustments to gradually lengthen the bone over a period of time.
- Internal Fixation: This involves surgical implantation of internal devices like intramedullary nails or telescopic rods within the bone to aid in lengthening.
Factors Leading to Limb Lengthening:
- Stature enhancement for cosmetic reasons.
- Correction of limb length inequalities due to birth defects, injuries, or conditions like limb lengthening in achondroplasia.
- Correction of deformities like limb lengthening in cases of bow legs or knock knees.
Symptoms and Indications for Limb Lengthening:
Common signs of Limb Lengthening may include:
- Limb length discrepancies, which result in issues with gait, balance, and functionality.
- Cosmetic concerns about body proportions or stature.
- Congenital limb deformities.
- Limb length issues due to injuries or trauma.
- Various medical conditions that require limb lengthening for functional or medical reasons.
What are the common Symptoms of Limb Lengthening ?
Limb Lengthening occurs mostly in the following cases::
- Congenital factors leading to limb length discrepancies.
- Growth plate injuries in adolescents.
- Developmental conditions that affect bone growth.
- Traumatic injuries or fractures that result in unequal limb lengths.
How to diagnose Limb Lengthening?
- Medical history, physical examination, and measurements to determine the extent of limb length inequality.
- Imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI to assess bone health and identify the specific cause.
- A comprehensive evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist or surgeon to determine if limb lengthening is necessary and appropriate.
- Limb lengthening is a complex procedure that requires careful planning and monitoring throughout the process. The choice of method, the lengthening rate, and the recovery period depend on the specific condition and patient goals.