We present the first 12 consecutive patients, undergoing elective paediatric limb reconstruction with an external fixator, for the 12-month period October 2020-October 2021. This is a single surgeon series for a newly appointed Consultant with limited previous experience. Arrangements were made for mentoring by a senior surgeon recently retired from the NHS but still active in private practice. The average age of patients was 10.5years at the time of frame application (5—15 years). Four frames in three patients were for Blount's; two for sequelae of NF1; two for posteromedial tibial bow with shortening, two for fibula hemimelia; one congenital short femur, one for sequelae of neonatal sepsis and one for bone loss following tumour resection.Introduction
Materials and Methods
There is a drive to reduce length of stay in children undergoing limb reconstruction but a reduction in community physiotherapy input and a consequent pressure to ensure children are as independent as possible prior to discharge. This study aims to look at time taken and potential factors effecting the achievement of pre-set mobility goals and length of stay in this population Between June 2018 and November 2021 data was collated for patients who underwent limb reconstruction at Great Ormond Street hospital. 77 patients were reviewed. Data collected included type and location of lengthening device and length of stay. A modified version of the Goal Attainment Score (GAS) was used and included 3 goals which the child needed to achieve within 7 days post-operatively.Introduction
Materials and Methods
