Limb Lengthening Treatment

What is Limb Lengthening?

Limb lengthening is a surgical procedure used to correct leg length discrepancies or congenital short stature by gradually increasing the length of a bone. The process uses advanced orthopedic technology that stimulates bone regeneration while maintaining normal limb function.

This treatment can improve mobility, symmetry, and confidence in children born with short limbs, or those who develop leg length differences due to injury, infection, or growth disorders.

Key Facts About Limb Lengthening

• Bone can safely be lengthened up to 15–20% of its original length
• Children with more than 2 cm leg length difference may require evaluation
• Performed in stages and requires careful monitoring
• Technology includes external fixators or internal magnetic nails
• Outcomes are usually permanent and functional

Limb length differences may be present at birth or develop later due to:

• Congenital limb deficiencies (like fibular hemimelia or hemihypertrophy)
• Growth plate injuries from fractures or trauma
• Bone infections like osteomyelitis
• Tumors or tumor treatment near growth plates
• Neuromuscular disorders (e.g., polio, cerebral palsy)

Symptoms and Consequences

Signs to Watch For:

• Noticeable difference in leg length when standing
• Limping or uneven gait
• Difficulty running or playing sports
• Back or hip pain from pelvic tilt
• Shoe lift requirement

If Left Untreated:

• Postural imbalance and spinal curvature
• Joint pain in knees, hips, or lower back
• Decreased physical activity
• Early arthritis due to uneven stress on joints

Limb Lengthening at Child OrthoCare

At Child OrthoCare, led by Dr. Nargesh Agrawal, we offer safe, precise, and compassionate care for children needing limb length correction.

1. Evaluation and Planning:

• Physical examination and gait assessment
• X-rays and scanograms to measure discrepancies
• Growth prediction tools for long-term planning

2. Surgical Lengthening Options:

• External Fixators: Traditional frame-based system used to gradually separate the bone
• Internal Lengthening Nails (Precice®): Modern magnetic nails implanted inside the bone for less visible and more comfortable lengthening
• Bone is cut surgically and gradually lengthened at ~1 mm per day

3. Post-Surgical Monitoring:

• Daily distraction phase with X-ray checks
• Bone consolidation phase with reduced activity
• Weight-bearing as permitted

4. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation:

• Critical part of recovery to maintain joint movement
• Strengthening, balance, and gait training

5. Follow-Up and Support:

• Continued tracking of limb alignment and growth
• Additional surgery (if needed) in multiple stages for large discrepancies

Did You Know?

• Children’s bones have better regenerative ability, making them ideal candidates
• Growth prediction can help decide whether to lengthen early or wait
• Pain during the lengthening phase is manageable and often minimal
• Internal lengthening nails reduce risk of infection and scarring compared to external fixators

Myths and Facts About Limb Lengthening

Myth: Limb lengthening is extremely painful.
Fact: With modern techniques, most children tolerate the process well with mild discomfort.

Myth: It is only cosmetic.
Fact: It’s medically necessary in many cases to prevent postural and gait problems.

Myth: It’s risky and unreliable.
Fact: With experienced surgeons and proper protocols, the success rate is high.

Myth: Children need to be bedridden for months.
Fact: Children remain mobile with support and continue physical activities during recovery.