Which method is best for limb lengthening?
What is the best method for limb lengthening? Whenever possible, we prefer to use an internal lengthening nail. However, there are many situations that require use of the external fixator, including: children with open growth plates.
Is leg-lengthening safe?
In my experience, limb lengthening surgery is a safe procedure with a very low risk of complications. The main risk we find in limb lengthening surgery is that there is no growth of new bone at the site where the bone was broken.
How much does leg-lengthening cost?
In the US, leg-lengthening surgery costs about $85,000 and only a few American doctors perform the procedure. That’s why an increasing number of medical tourists travel to Russia to undergo this cosmetic enhancement, where it costs around $16,000.
How does an internal limb lengthening device work?
Internal limb lengthening is when the device used to lengthen the bone is inserted inside the bone. The lengthening device has a small magnetic motor inside it. When the motor is activated by an External Remote Controller (ERC), the device slowly lengthens, and this causes the bone to slowly lengthen.
How does an external fixator lengthen a bone?
When the motor is activated by an External Remote Controller (ERC), the device slowly lengthens, and this causes the bone to slowly lengthen. Previously, the only way to lengthen a bone was to apply a metal scaffolding to the leg called an external fixator.
What kind of plates are used for internal fixation?
A plate is a type of internal fixation that is attached to the bone with screws. Plates are made of surgical grade stainless steel or titanium. After treatment, plates can be removed during a surgical procedure or they can remain in place.
How are rods and nails inserted in the femur?
The way the rod or nail is inserted depends on the bone and the patient’s unique situation: For the femur (thigh bone), the device may be inserted in two different ways: Through the top of the femur that is closest to the hip (inserted from the hip towards the knee).