Limb lengthening is a process by which our limbs—upper or lower—are made longer. This treatment is often required when one limb is shorter than the other due to congenital conditions like hemimelia or congenital shortening of the femur (thigh bone). Limb shortening can also result from growth arrest caused by infections, injuries, or other conditions. In many cases, a deformity accompanies the shortening and is corrected simultaneously during the procedure.
Limb lengthening procedures are performed on the shorter limb or limb segment to equalize limb lengths. For individuals with significant lengthening goals (15 cm or more), the treatment may require multiple surgeries over time. Additionally, limb lengthening surgery can also be applied bilaterally to increase height. This transformative procedure is commonly sought by individuals with genetic conditions causing short stature or by those desiring height enhancement.
Limb lengthening involves advanced surgical techniques to safely and effectively address discrepancies, restore alignment, and improve functionality. With proper planning and execution, these procedures can provide life-changing results for patients.
The method to biologically lengthen bone was pioneered by Prof. Gavriil Ilizarov, a Russian doctor. He developed a technique called Distraction Osteogenesis, which creates new bone by gradually increasing the gap between surgically divided bone ends. As the gap widens and fills with new bone, surrounding soft tissues—nerves, blood vessels, and muscles—also adapt and lengthen proportionally, a phenomenon known as distraction histogenesis.
Distraction osteogenesis remains the foundation for all modern limb lengthening procedures. The technique allows for predictable and safe bone lengthening. For instance, lengthening a lower limb bone segment by up to 4 cm is considered safe in a single procedure. In some cases, two segments, such as the femur and tibia, can be lengthened simultaneously or sequentially to achieve a total of 8 cm. Repeat lengthening of the same bone is possible after an interval of three years, allowing for significant cumulative gains over time.
This advanced technique has transformed limb lengthening surgeries, offering effective solutions for addressing limb length discrepancies and achieving desired height increases.
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Limb lengthening surgery is a meticulous process requiring detailed planning and dedicated aftercare. The procedure, while transformative, demands effort and cooperation from both patients and families. At COSCC, our expert team is committed to providing personalized care to achieve the best outcomes.
In this lengthening device, the pins are applied to one side of the limb, and the fixator sits on one side – usually outer aspect of the thigh or the front side of the leg
Here, the system has metal rings that encircle the limb. The pins attach to the rings. This design is close to the classical system for limb lengthening
This device uses 2 rings connected by a hexapod frame. The lengthening is planned out, and a computer software programme devises a lengthening plan. This system is more useful where the limb shortening is accompanied by a deformity.
This is a new system now available in India. A magnetic lengthening Nail device is inserted into the bone to be lengthened. The entire device is internal and not visible. Lengthening is achieved 3-4 times a day by placing a magnet driver over the leg to achieve a distraction of 1 mm per day.
The surgery to increase height is called Limb Lengthening Surgery, often performed using advanced techniques like the Ilizarov method or Precice nail system.
Height increase surgery involves gradually lengthening the bones in the legs using specialized devices. This process stimulates bone regeneration in the gap created during surgery.
Typically, height increase surgery can add 5-8 cm in one procedure. Additional height can be achieved with subsequent surgeries after a gap of 2-3 years.
Gurgaon is home to several reputed orthopedic centers, including Child Ortho Spine Care, offering expert limb lengthening surgery with modern techniques and experienced surgeons.
The surgery itself takes a few hours, but the overall process, including bone lengthening and recovery, spans 3-6 months depending on the desired height increase.