Best Hospitals & Clinics for Limb Lengthening

Outcomes of Limb Lengthening

What is a Limb Lengthening, and how does it work?

Limb lengthening is a surgical procedure performed by a skilled orthopedic surgeon along with a team of other healthcare providers. The treatment is designed to increase the length of a person's bones, typically in the arms or legs. The process involves gradually stretching the bone through the use of an external fixator or an internal rod. This allows the new bone to form in the gap created. This technique stimulates bone growth and eventually leads to a longer limb.

What medical conditions can be treated through Limb Lengthening?

A patient can opt for a limb lengthening procedure purely for cosmetic purposes. However, it is not medically recommended. The medical conditions for which limb lengthening is recommended include Limb Length Discrepancy (correcting differences in leg or arm length caused by congenital conditions, fractures, or other medical conditions), Dwarfism, and Deformities such as bow legs or knock knees.

What is the recovery process after a Limb Lengthening?

The full recovery after limb lengthening surgery can take several months. The recovery process involves a hospital stay for the initial few days, followed by gradual adjustments by your surgeon in the external fixator and internal rods (responsible for bone growth). Physical therapy is essential during the recovery period to regain strength, flexibility, and function in the lengthened limb. Pain medications may be prescribed to manage discomfort during the healing process. The patient slowly goes back to day-to-day activities, starting with a gradual increase in weight bearing. Follow-up visits are a must for proper recovery.