Limb Lengthening Surgery

A specialized procedure aimed at assisting with the increase in length of bones in arms or legs (Wahl). This surgery can be conducted on various bones, such as the humerus (upper arm), radius and ulna (forearm bones), femur (thigh bone), and tibia (shin bone). Limb length discrepancies, during which one limb is shorter than the other, as well as congenital conditions, injuries or diseases that cause incorrect bone growths are conditions that require this procedure.

The surgery entails cutting the bone and then pulling it gradually apart using an external fixator device or an internal lengthening nail. As time passes, when the bone is separated slowly, new bone tissue forms within its gap leading to an increased size of the bone over time. This process involves careful supervision and can take several months depending on how much lengthening is needed.

For individuals with limb length discrepancies or growth abnormalities, limb lengthening surgery can improve function, movement capabilities and life-quality greatly therefore it requires a complex procedure which takes a long recovery period and if any possible complications must also be thought about.

When thinking about having a limb lengthening surgery, one must always visit a qualified orthopedic doctor who is an expert in this technique. They will be able to guide you through the whole procedure; its consequences as well as what to expect at its end so that you can make an educated choice according to your objectives and preferences.