Motorized internal lengthening nail, anterograde femur technique can correct leg length

Orthopedics Today—October 7, 2017

In an bylined article for Orthopedics Today, HSS limb lengthening surgeon Austin T. Fragomen, MD and HSS chief of the Limb Lengthening and Complex Reconstruction service S. Robert Rozbruch, MD wrote about a surgical technique to correct leg length.

The article reported that femoral lengthening with an internal lengthening nail allows for leg length equalization and deformity correction. For perioperative planning, the article suggested to do a block test to determine where a patient feels comfortable with leg length. The surgeons also provided tips for the osteotomy and postoperative care.

According to the article, the standard protocol for femur lengthening begins four days after the operation. The patient is taught how to make adjustments for lengthening at home, and is advised to go to physical therapy to maintain knee and hip range of motion.

Read the full article at healio.com [registration required]. This article appeared in the October 2017 print issue.