Advertisement for orthosearch.org.uk
Results 1 - 20 of 30
Results per page:
The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 101-B, Issue 9 | Pages 1168 - 1176
1 Sep 2019
Calder PR McKay JE Timms AJ Roskrow T Fugazzotto S Edel P Goodier WD

Aims. The Precice intramedullary limb-lengthening system has demonstrated significant benefits over external fixation lengthening methods, leading to a paradigm shift in limb lengthening. This study compares outcomes following antegrade and retrograde femoral lengthening in both adolescent and adult patients. Patients and Methods. A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was undertaken of a consecutive series of 107 femoral lengthening operations in 92 patients. In total, 73 antegrade nails and 34 retrograde nails were inserted. Outcome was assessed by the regenerate healing index (HI), hip and knee range of movement (ROM), and the presence of any complications. Results. The mean lengthening was 4.65 cm (1.5 to 8) in the antegrade group and 4.64 cm (1.6 to 8) in the retrograde group. Of the 107 lengthenings, 100 had sufficient datapoints to calculate the mean HI. This was 31.6 days/cm (15 to 108). There was a trend toward a lower (better) HI with an antegrade nail and better outcomes in adolescent patients, but these were not statistically significant. Hip and knee ROM was maintained and/or improved following commencement of femoral lengthening in 44 patients (60%) of antegrade nails and 13 patients (38%) of retrograde nails. In female patients, loss of movement occurred both earlier and following less total length achieved. Minor implant complications included locking bolt migration and in one patient deformity of the nail, but no implant failed to lengthen and there were no deep infections. Three patients had delayed union, five patients required surgical intervention for joint contracture. Conclusion. This study confirms excellent results in femoral lengthening with antegrade and retrograde Precice nails. There is a trend for better healing and less restriction in hip and knee movement following antegrade nails. There are clinical scenarios, that mandate the use of a retrograde nail. However, when these are not present, we recommend the use of antegrade nailing. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1168–1176


The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery British Volume
Vol. 91-B, Issue 7 | Pages 955 - 961
1 Jul 2009
Simpson AHWR Shalaby H Keenan G

Femoral lengthening using the Intramedullary Skeletal Kinetic Distractor is a new technique. However, with intramedullary distraction the surgeon has less control over the lengthening process. Therefore, 33 femora lengthened with this device were assessed to evaluate the effect of operative variables under the surgeon’s control on the course of lengthening. The desired lengthening was achieved in 32 of 33 limbs. Problems encountered included difficulty in achieving length in eight femora (24%) and uncontrolled lengthening in seven (21%). Uncontrolled lengthening was more likely if the osteotomy was placed with less than 80 mm of the thick portion of the nail in the distal fragment (p = 0.052), and a failure to lengthen was more likely if there was over 125 mm in the distal fragment (p = 0.008). The latter problem was reduced with over-reaming by 2.5 mm to 3 mm. Previous intramedullary nailing also predisposed to uncontrolled lengthening (p = 0.042), and these patients required less reaming. Using the Intramedullary Skeletal Kinetic Distractor, good outcomes were obtained; problems were minimised by optimising the position of the osteotomy and the amount of over-reaming performed


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 22 - 22
23 Apr 2024
Laufer A Frommer A Gosheger G Toporowski G Rölfing JD Antfang C Roedl R Vogt B
Full Access

Introduction. Coronal malalignment and leg length discrepancies (LLD) are frequently associated. Temporary hemiepiphysiodesis (tHED) is commonly employed for the correction of limb malalignment in skeletally immature patients. For treatment of LLD greater than 2 cm, lengthening with intramedullary legnthening nails is a safe and reliable technique. However, the combined application of these approaches in skeletally immature patients has not yet been investigated. Materials & Methods. Retrospective radiological and clinical analysis of 25 patients (14 females, 11 males) who underwent intramedullary femoral lengthening with an antegrade PRECICE® lengthening nail as well as tHED of the distal femur and / or proximal tibia between 2014 and 2019. tHED was conducted by implantation of flexible staples (FlexTack™) either prior (n = 11), simultaneously (n = 10), or subsequently (n = 4) to femoral lengthening. The mean follow-up period was 3.7 years (±1.4). Results. The median initial LLD was 39.0 mm (35.0–45.0). 21 patients (84%) presented valgus and 4 (16%) showed varus malalignment. Leg length equalization was achieved in 13 patients at skeletal maturity (62%). The median LLD of patients with a residual LLD > 10 mm was 15.5 mm (12.8–21.8). Limb realignment was obtained in nine of seventeen skeletally mature patients (53%) in the valgus group, and in one of four patients (25%) in the varus group. Conclusions. The combination of antegrade femoral lengthening and tHED can efficiently correct LLD and coronal limb malalignment in skeletally immature patients. Nevertheless, achieving limb length equalization and realignment may render difficult in cases of severe LLD and angular deformity. Furthermore, the reported techniques ought to be thoroughly planned and executed and require regular clinical and radiological examinations until skeletal maturity to avoid - or timely detect and manage - adverse events such as overcorrection and rebound of deformity


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 40 - 40
1 Apr 2022
Hafez M Nicolaou N Dixon S Obasohan P Giles S Madan S Fernandes J Offiah A
Full Access

Introduction. Motorised intramedullary lengthening nails are considered more expensive than external fixators for limb lengthening. This research aims to compare the cost of femoral lengthening in children using the PRECICE magnetic lengthening nail with external fixation. Materials and Methods. Patients: Retrospective analysis of 50 children who underwent femoral lengthening. One group included patients who were treated with PRECICE lengthening nails, the other group included patients who had lengthening with external fixation. Each group included 25 patients aged between 11–17 years. The patients in both groups were matched for age. Cost analysis was performed following micro-costing and analysis of the used resources during the different phases of the treatments. Results. : Each group's mean patient age was 14.7 years. Lengthening nails were associated with longer operative times compared to external fixators, both for implantation and removal surgery (P-value 0.007 and <0.0001 respectively). Length of stay following the implantation surgery, frequency of radiographs, frequency of outpatient department appointments were all more favourable with lengthening nails. The overall cost of lengthening nails was £1393 more than external fixators, although this difference was not statistically significant (P-value 0.088). Conclusions. The cost of femoral lengthening with lengthening nails was not significantly higher than the external fixators’ cost. Further research to review the effectiveness of the devices and the quality of life during the lengthening process is crucial for robust health economic evaluation


Introduction. At Sheffield Children's Hospital, treatment of leg length discrepancy is a common procedure. Historically, this has been done with external fixators. With the development in intramedullary technology, internal nails have become the preferred modality for long bone lengthening in the adolescent population. However, it is important to review whether this technology practically reduces the known challenges seen and if it brings any new issues. Therefore, the aim of this review is to retrospectively evaluate the therapeutic challenges of 16 fit-bone intramedullary femoral lengthening's at Sheffield Children's Hospital between 2021–2022. Materials & Methods. The international classification of function (ICF) framework was used to differentiate outcomes. The patient's therapy notes were retrospectively reviewed for themes around structural, activity and participation limitation. The findings were grouped for analysis and the main themes presented. Results. There were 8 males, mean age 17.4 years (range 17–18) and 8 females, mean age 15.9 years (range 14–18). 5 right and 11 left femurs were lengthened. Underlying pathology varied amongst the 16 patients. All patients went into a hinged knee brace post operatively. Structural limitations included: pain, fixed flexion deformity of the knee, loss of knee flexion, quadriceps muscle lag, muscle spasms and gluteal weakness. The primary activity limitation was reduced weight bearing with altered gait pattern. Participation limitations included reduced school attendance and involvement in activities with peers. Access to Physiotherapy from local services varied dramatically. Five of the cohort have completed treatment. Conclusions. Anecdotally, intramedullary femoral lengthening nails have perceived benefits for families compared to external fixators in the adolescent population. However, there remain musculoskeletal and psychosocial outcomes requiring therapeutic management throughout the lengthening process and beyond. Therefore, quantifying these outcomes is essential for measuring the impact on each patient for comparison. To interpret these themes, we need to evaluate the outcomes objectively, this was not done consistently in this review. Future research should look at outcome measures that are sensitive to all aspects of the ICF. With an aim of improving the therapeutic treatment provided and the overall outcome for the children treated


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 37 - 37
1 May 2021
Bari M
Full Access

Introduction. The objective of this study is to report the first cases of femoral lengthening in children using Ilizarov fixator. Materials and Methods. We carried out a retrospective study about the cases of femoral lengthening done in 2010 to 2020 in our BARI-ILIZAROV Orthopaedic centre Dhaka. Results. 48 lengthening were done during this period using Ilizarov fixator. The procedure was done incongenital bone diseases in 20 cases and after a distal femoral epiphysiodesis in 10 cases. The mean age at surgery was 12.8 years. Lengthening was required in all patients and an axis correction was required in 16 of 26 cases. The mean lengthening was 5.9 cm. The healing index was 45.5 day/cm (25.5–62). We noticed 8 knee stiffness and 5 broken wires. Knee Stiffness were corrected by Judet'squadricepsplasty and 6 broken wires were replaced by new wires. The goal of lengthening was reached in all cases. The goal of axis correction was reached in 98.5% of cases. Conclusions. Ilizarov technique allows to do accurate lengthening and axis correction and it is a unique reliable external fixator for femoral lengthening in children


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 29 - 29
1 May 2021
Rouse B Giles S Fernandes J
Full Access

Introduction. We have previously published limb lengthening using external fixation in pathological bone diseases. We would like to report a case series of femoral lengthening using the PRECICE system in a similar pathological group especially looking at it's feasibility and complications. Materials and Methods. This is a case series of four patients, two patients with osteogenesis imperfecta and two with Ollier's disease, who underwent femoral lengthening via distraction osteogenesis using the PRECICE intramedullary nail system. It was a retrospective study from a prospective database from clinical records and radiographs. Results. The mean age at the time of surgery was 15.5 years, the mean preoperative leg length discrepancy was 30mm, and the mean distraction distance achieved was 28.75mm. Since these patients were of shorter heigh, limb lengthening was considered. All 4 patients had successful insertion of the nail. The outcomes noted from the 4 patients are collated, with several complications occurring including delayed femoral union, fixed flexion deformity of the hip, persisting pain and quadriceps weakness. Those with Ollier's disease underwent an increased rate of distraction to prevent premature healing. The implications of long-term bisphosphonate therapy in OI are discussed with regards to the risk of delayed femoral union and intra-operative fracture. Conclusions. Intramedullary femoral lengthening in pathological bone disease is possible, but the surgeon needs to give attention to certain details. The regenerate formation is based on the background pathology irrespective of the hardware used. There is much more compliance with the nail technique


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 103-B, Issue 6 | Pages 1168 - 1172
1 Jun 2021
Iliadis AD Wright J Stoddart MT Goodier WD Calder P

Aims. The STRYDE nail is an evolution of the PRECICE Intramedullary Limb Lengthening System, with unique features regarding its composition. It is designed for load bearing throughout treatment in order to improve patient experience and outcomes and allow for simultaneous bilateral lower limb lengthening. The literature published to date is limited regarding outcomes and potential problems. We report on our early experience and raise awareness for the potential of adverse effects from this device. Methods. This is a retrospective review of prospective data collected on all patients treated in our institution using this implant. We report the demographics, nail accuracy, reliability, consolidation index, and cases where concerning clinical and radiological findings were encountered. There were 14 STRYDE nails implanted in nine patients (three male and six female) between June 2019 and September 2020. Mean age at surgery was 33 years (14 to 65). Five patients underwent bilateral lengthening (two femoral and three tibial) and four patients unilateral femoral lengthening for multiple aetiologies. Results. At the time of reporting, eight patients (13 implants) had completed lengthening. Osteolysis and periosteal reaction at the junction of the telescopic nail was evident in nine implants. Five patients experienced localized pain and swelling. Macroscopic appearances following retrieval were consistent with corrosion at the telescopic junction. Tissue histology was consistent with effects of focal metallic wear debris. Conclusion. From our early experience with this implant we have found the process of lengthening to be accurate and reliable with good regenerate formation and consolidation. Proposed advantages of early load bearing and the ability for bilateral lengthening are promising. We have, however, encountered concerning clinical and radiological findings in several patients. We have elected to discontinue its use to allow further investigation into the retrieved implants and patient outcomes from users internationally. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1168–1172


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 17 - 17
23 Apr 2024
Mackarel C Tunbridge R
Full Access

Introduction. Sheffield Children's Hospital specialises in limb lengthening for children. Soft tissue contracture and loss of range of motion at the knee and ankle are common complications. This review aims to look at therapeutic techniques used by the therapy team to manage these issues. Materials & Methods. A retrospective case review of therapy notes was performed of femoral and tibial lengthening's over the last 3 years. Included were children having long bone lengthening with an iIntramedullary nail, circular frame or mono-lateral rail. Patients excluded were any external fixators crossing the knee/ankle joints. Results. 20 tibial and 25 femoral lengthening's met the inclusion criteria. Pathologies included, complex fractures, limb deficiency, post septic necrosis and other congenital conditions leading to growth disturbance. All patients had issues with loss of motion at some point during the lengthening process. The knee and foot/ankle were equally affected. Numerous risk factors were identified across the cohort. Treatment provided included splinting, serial casting, bolt on shoes, exercise therapy, electrical muscle stimulation and passive stretching. Conclusions. Loss of motion in lower limb joints was common. Patients at higher risk were those with abnormal anatomy, larger target lengthening's, poor compliance or lack of access to local services. Therapy played a significant role in managing joint motion during treatment. However, limitations were noted. No one treatment option gave preferential outcomes, selection of treatment needed to be patient specific. Future research should look at guidelines to aid timely input and avoid secondary complications


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_10 | Pages 30 - 30
1 Jun 2023
Tissingh E Goodier D Wright J Timms A Campbell M Crook G Calder P
Full Access

Introduction. The FitBone lengthening nail (Orthofix UK) is an intramedullary device licensed for the lengthening of long bones in adults in the UK. It contains a motor powered by electricity transmitted via an induction coil placed underneath the skin. It was developed in Germany two decades ago but uptake in the UK has only started more recently. The aim of this study was to review the first cohort of FitBone lengthening nails in a unit with significant experience of other lengthening nails (including PRECICE and Stryde). Materials & Methods. Demographic, clinical and radiological data was prospectively collected on all FitBone cases starting in February 2022. Accuracy of lengthening rate, patient satisfaction and implant issues were all considered. Complications and learning points were recorded and discussed by the multidisciplinary team involved in the patients care. Results. Eleven lengthening nails were inserted between February and November 2022 (6 right femurs, 5 left femurs). The average patient age was 31 (16–57) with 4 females and 7 males. The average lengthening achieved was 44mm (13– 70) over an average of 59 days (35 to 104). Significant technical issues were encountered in this cohort of patients including slow opening up at osteotomy site (3 requiring speeding up of programme), early consolidation (one requiring re-do osteotomy) and backing out of locking screws (3 out of 11 nails). There were also patient use concerns with difficulty using the motor and the inability to reverse the lengthening without an additional component to the motor. Conclusions. We present the first UK cohort of patients with femoral lengthening using the FitBone implant and device. We highlight the technical and patient issues encountered during this learning curve and propose solutions to avoid these pitfalls


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 9 - 9
23 Apr 2024
Ramlawi AA McClure P Assayag M
Full Access

Introduction. The practice of limb lengthening using intramedullary nails has surged in popularity in recent years. Our study explores the relationship between femur lengthening and overall height gain in adults undergoing cosmetic limb lengthening with telescoping magnetic intramedullary lengthening nails (MILNs). Materials & Methods. Demographic information, pre- and postoperative radiographic data, and secondary outcomes, such as mechanical angles and sagittal alignment, were analyzed for 42 adult femurs MILNs (PRECICE 2, NuVasive, Inc.). Height was assessed with a digital stadiometer. Limb lengthening was defined as the amount of nail distraction seen on a calibrated weight bearing X-ray at consolidation. mLDFA, mMPTA, MAD, AMA, and femoral sagittal bow were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Results. Mean starting height was 163.5 cm (SD 10.4, range 137–179) Post -lengthening mean height increased to 171.1 cm (SD 10.1, range 146.7–185.3). Average height gain was 7.5 cm (SD 1.3 cm, range 5.1–9.5). Average femoral lengthening was 7.3 cm (SD 1.14, range 4.1–10.1). There were no statistically significant difference between height gain and femur lengthening. Secondary outcomes showed reductions in femoral sagittal bow and AMA. Conclusions. We conclude that measuring femur lengthening is a reliable and accurate method of measuring gained height in deformity-free patients undergoing limb lengthening. We further reason that straightening of both femoral and spinal sagittal bow counteracts potential lengthening loss over the anatomical axis, versus mechanical axis lengthening


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_10 | Pages 19 - 19
1 Jun 2023
Donnan U O'Sullivan M McCombe D Coombs C Donnan L
Full Access

Introduction. The use of vascularised fibula grafts is an accepted method for reconstructing the distal femur following resection of malignant childhood tumours. Limitations relate to the mismatch of the cross-sectional area of the transplanted fibula graft and thel ocal bone, instability of the construct and union difficulties. We present midterm results of a unique staged technique—an immediate defect reconstruction using a double-barrel vascularised fibula graft set in in A-frame configuration and a subsequent intramedullary femoral lengthening. Materials & Methods. We retrospectively included 10 patients (mean age 10 y)with an osteosarcoma of the distal femur, who were treated ac-cording to the above-mentioned surgical technique. All patients were evaluated with regards to consolidation of the transplanted grafts, hypertrophy at the graft-host junctions, leg length discrepancies, lengthening indices, complications as well as functional outcome. Results. The mean defect size after tumour resection was 14.5 cm, the mean length of the harvested fibula graft 22 cm, resulting in a mean (acute) shortening of 4.7 cm (in 8 patients). Consolidation was achieved in all cases, 4 patients required supplementary bone grafting. Hypertrophy at the graft-host junctions was observed in78% of the evaluable junctions. In total 11 intramedullary lengthening procedures in 9 patients had been performed at the last follow up. The mean Muskuloskeletal Society Rating Scale(MSTS) score of the evaluable 9 patients was 85% (57% to 100%)with good or excellent results in 7 patients. Conclusions. A-frame vascularised fibula reconstructions showed encouraging results with respect to defect reconstruction, length as well as function and should therefore be considered a valuable option for reconstruction of the distal femur after osteosarcoma resection. The surgical implementation is demanding though, which is emphasized by the considerable high number of com-plications requiring surgical intervention, even though most were not serious


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 18 - 18
23 Apr 2024
Guichet J Frigerio S
Full Access

Introduction. A 6cm femoral gain requires 5-Y during normal growth, but only 6–8-W surgically (x30–40 faster). In lengthening surgery, losses of muscle force (MF) and circumferences (MC) are major. Recovery is long, preventing sports till bone fusion. Can we maintain MC and strength throughout the entire lengthening and how?. We monitored for over 30 years patients for muscle force (isokinetic), circumferences, activities (including sports) and food intake, and acted on the 5 principles of the Osteostasis. Materials & Methods. Over 750 femoral lengthening with Full WB Nails (FWBN) got Isokinetic testing (≧1991), circumferences measurements (≧2012; 20-15-10-5-0cm above patella, max-calf, mini/max-ankle), food intake (≧2012), using MyFitnessPal App (≧2016), gradually enforced. Preoperative training along with a daily post-operative training are supervised by our trainers. Recommendations for food intake and activities were provided. Patients noted on a specific App all parameters. Compliance was noted. Results. Instead of a traditional 7–9cm circumference loss for 8–10cm gains using Ex-fix or nails, with FWBN and our protocols, no MC loss could be noted in compliant pre-trained patients, intensive early post-op resistance training, high calory intake (M:>4200, F:>3000; 20–25% Proteins) and supplements (no fat pad increase). Bone fusion could be obtained at the end of lengthening or within short weeks (Healing Index down to 8D/cm). Non-compliant patients (or using morphine), lost weight and MC. Conclusions. Increasing by 8–10cm muscle length, even bilaterally, and maintaining MC during lengthening, is possible, with very fast bone fusion. It requires building up several hundred of grams of muscles. The ‘building up equation’ associating resistance bike from the early post-operative phase with sports, strong food intake with increased protein intake, and added supplements with no morphine medication, proved to boost circumferences and bone fusion. It induced fast recovery, walking and sports capacities


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 38 - 38
1 May 2021
Iliadis A Timms A Fugazzotto S Edel P Wright J Goodier D Britten S Calder P
Full Access

Introduction. The use of intramedullary lengthening devices is becoming increasingly popular. There are no published data regarding the incidence of venous thromboembolism following intramedullary lengthening and no reports or guidance for current practices on use of thromboprophylaxis. Following a case of post-operative deep vein thrombosis in our institution, we felt that it is important to assess best practice. We conducted this survey to collect data that would describe current practice and help guide consensus for treatment. Materials and Methods. We have identified surgeons across the UK that perform intramedullary lengthening through the British Limb Reconstruction Society membership and a Precise Users database. Surgeons were contacted and asked to respond to an online survey (SurveyMonkey - SVMK Inc.). Responses to thromboprophylaxis regimes employed in their practice and cases of venous thromboembolism were collated. Results. 24 out of 54 surgeons identified responded with a total of 454 cases of intramedullary lengthening (352 femoral and 102 tibial nails) performed over the last 5 years. Only one case of DVT following femoral lengthening was reported. There is wide variability in practice both in terms of thromboprophylaxis risk assessment, choice of medications (20% no pharmacological treatment, 75% Low molecular Weight Heparin, 5% Aspirin) and duration of treatment (0–42 days). The vast majority of surgeons (85%) felt that there was insufficient evidence available to guide their practice. Conclusions. Intramedullary lengthening is a relatively recent and novel surgical treatment. As a result there is limited data available to guide decision making regarding aspects of treatment such as thromboprophylaxis. This is reflected in the wide variation in practice reported in this study. There is both a need and a desire to gather data that will allow us to come to a consensus and to guide safe practice


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 4 - 4
1 May 2021
Iliadis A Wright J Stoddart M Goodier D Calder P
Full Access

Introduction. The STRYDE nail is an evolution of the PRECICE Intramedullary Limb Lengthening System, with unique features regarding its composition. It is designed for load bearing throughout treatment in order to improve patient experience and outcomes and allow for simultaneous bilateral lower limb lengthening. The literature published to date is limited with regards to both outcomes and potential issues. In this paper we report on our early experience and raise awareness for the potential of adverse effects from this device. Materials and Methods. This is a review of all patients treated in our institution using this implant. Data were prospectively recorded. We report on demographics, nail accuracy, reliability, consolidation index and cases where concerning clinical and radiological findings were encountered. Results. 14 Stryde nails were implanted in nine patients (three males and six females) between June 2019 and September 2020. Mean age at surgery was 33 years old (14–65 years old). Five patients underwent bilateral lengthening (two femoral and three tibial) and four patients unilateral femoral lengthening for multiple aetiologies. By the time of this report eight patients (13 implants) had completed lengthening. Osteolysis and periosteal reaction at the junction of the telescopic nail was evident in nine implants. Five patients experienced localised pain and swelling. Macroscopic appearances following retrieval were consistent with corrosion at the telescopic junction. Tissue histology was consistent with effects of focal metallic wear debris. Conclusions. From our early experience with this implant we have found the process of lengthening to be accurate and reliable with good regenerate formation and consolidation. Proposed advantages of early load bearing and the ability for bilateral lengthening are promising. We have, however, encountered cases with concerning clinical and radiological findings. We have elected to discontinue its use to allow further investigation into the retrieved implants and patient outcomes from users internationally


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 94 - 94
1 Feb 2012
Acharya A Guichet J Hobson P
Full Access

To assess the effect on knee motion of gradual femoral lengthening using an intramedullary nail, between 1994 and 2003, 27 non-achondroplastic patients had bilateral femoral lengthening using the Albizzia nail. Vigorous post-operative physiotherapy was the norm. Knee motion recorded at various stages pre and post-operatively was compared. For an average gain of 6 cm the mean flexion during lengthening was 119. By final follow-up all patients had regained pre-operative range of motion. No tenotomies or joint manipulations were required. Good knee motion can be maintained during femoral lengthening using an intramedullary lengthening device


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 12 - 12
1 Apr 2022
Baumgart R
Full Access

Introduction. Fully implantable systems are used commonly only after maturity. What are indications to use fully implantable systems at the femur even in children?. Materials and Methods. Implantable lengthening nails (FITBONE) were used retrograde at the femur in minimal invasive technique to correct a limb length discrepancy of >6 cm. In 5 cases a relevant deformity was corrected in the same surgery. In all cases a final step of lengthening was planned at the femur and at the tibia with fully implantable devices at maturity. Results. 18 patients with the medium age of 10,3 years (8–14) were treated. In 17 cases the goal of lengthening was achieved without any complication. In one case of proximal femoral deficiency lengthening had to be stopped because of increasing tendency of knee joint luxation. Bone formation occurred circular around the nail in all cases. Full load bearing was possible in the average after 2,2 days/mm. No technical problems occur. In one case induced deformity in the lateral plane was observed which was corrected at the final step. At the end of treatment functional and cosmetical result was perfect in all cases. Conclusions. Fully implantable motorized distraction nails are a favorable option for lengthening and deformity correction of the femur even for children older than 10 years to correct limb length discrepancy of more than 6 cm. The treatment has a low pain level, is comfortable and nearly no scars are visible


The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery British Volume
Vol. 94-B, Issue 1 | Pages 128 - 133
1 Jan 2012
Kim S Agashe MV Song S Choi H Lee H Song H

Lengthening of the humerus is now an established technique. We compared the complications of humeral lengthening with those of femoral lengthening and investigated whether or not the callus formation in the humerus proceeds at a higher rate than that in the femur. A total of 24 humeral and 24 femoral lengthenings were performed on 12 patients with achondroplasia. We measured the pixel value ratio (PVR) of the lengthened area on radiographs and each radiograph was analysed for the shape, type and density of the callus. The quality of life (QOL) of the patients after humeral lengthening was compared with that prior to surgery. The complication rate per segment of humerus and femur was 0.87% and 1.37%, respectively. In the humerus the PVR was significantly higher than that of the femur. Lower limbs were associated with an increased incidence of concave, lateral and central callus shapes. Humeral lengthening had a lower complication rate than lower-limb lengthening, and QOL increased significantly after humeral lengthening. Callus formation in the humerus during the distraction period proceeded at a significantly higher rate than that in the femur. . These findings indicate that humeral lengthening has an important role in the management of patients with achondroplasia


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 106-B, Issue 3 | Pages 293 - 302
1 Mar 2024
Vogt B Lueckingsmeier M Gosheger G Laufer A Toporowski G Antfang C Roedl R Frommer A

Aims

As an alternative to external fixators, intramedullary lengthening nails (ILNs) can be employed for distraction osteogenesis. While previous studies have demonstrated that typical complications of external devices, such as soft-tissue tethering, and pin site infection can be avoided with ILNs, there is a lack of studies that exclusively investigated tibial distraction osteogenesis with motorized ILNs inserted via an antegrade approach.

Methods

A total of 58 patients (median age 17 years (interquartile range (IQR) 15 to 21)) treated by unilateral tibial distraction osteogenesis for a median leg length discrepancy of 41 mm (IQR 34 to 53), and nine patients with disproportionate short stature treated by bilateral simultaneous tibial distraction osteogenesis, with magnetically controlled motorized ILNs inserted via an antegrade approach, were retrospectively analyzed. The median follow-up was 37 months (IQR 30 to 51). Outcome measurements were accuracy, precision, reliability, bone healing, complications, and patient-reported outcome assessed by the Limb Deformity-Scoliosis Research Society Score (LD-SRS-30).


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 105-B, Issue 1 | Pages 88 - 96
1 Jan 2023
Vogt B Rupp C Gosheger G Eveslage M Laufer A Toporowski G Roedl R Frommer A

Aims

Distraction osteogenesis with intramedullary lengthening devices has undergone rapid development in the past decade with implant enhancement. In this first single-centre matched-pair analysis we focus on the comparison of treatment with the PRECICE and STRYDE intramedullary lengthening devices and aim to clarify any clinical and radiological differences.

Methods

A single-centre 2:1 matched-pair retrospective analysis of 42 patients treated with the STRYDE and 82 patients treated with the PRECICE nail between May 2013 and November 2020 was conducted. Clinical and lengthening parameters were compared while focusing radiological assessment on osseous alterations related to the nail’s telescopic junction and locking bolts at four different stages.