At the growing stages, the difference in limbs is not uncommon. It is seen that one arm may be slightly longer than the other or one leg may be longer than the other leg. Once the growth of the person stops, there might be a difference of a few millimeters in the limbs. If this is the case in arms, there should not be much problem, but if legs are of different lengths, it could be problematic.
If leg length discrepancy is there, the person may find it difficult to walk properly and experience pain. In such cases, limb shortening surgery is done. This post will focus on how limb shortening surgery will help treat limb length discrepancies.
What is Limb Shortening Surgery?
Limb shortening surgery is done to reduce the difference between the lengths of the limb with an operation. This method is known to be the most reliable and effective one to correct limb length discrepancies (LLD).
If differences in the lengths of the limb (especially legs) are ignored, then it may lead to complications like difficulty in walking and pain. Thus, it is better to consult a specialist to avoid any serious complications. Based on the situation of the patient, the doctor may suggest limb shortening surgery.
Based on the age of the patient, two types of surgical procedures may be followed:
- Epiphysiodesis
- Limb Shortening Surgery
Epiphysiodesis
Also known as growth plate fusion, epiphysiodesis is a surgical procedure carried out in children or adolescents. This surgical technique is used when the patient is in his/her growing stage. This is because, in this technique, the growth plates of the long bone are fused to stop or slow down the growth. In this way, the shorter one can catch up with the long bone while reducing the difference between the two. During this procedure, the surgeon may place a Joint Replacement Orthopedic Specialists plate around the growth plates to avoid the growth of any additional bone.
Limb Shortening Surgery
During this surgical procedure, the surgeon actually cuts some portion of the bone generally the femur or tibia. This procedure is carried out in the longer limb while the ends of the bones are stabilized using Metal Bone Plates and Screws. After surgery, it might take some weeks for the recovery and during that period, it is advised not to move the operated limb much. Sometimes, the doctor may also apply a cast for immobilization.
How much Bone can be Cut during Limb Shortening Surgery?
During limb shortening surgery, the surgeon can remove a maximum of 3 inches from the femur and 2 inches from the tibia. While on the other hand, the length of the bone to be cut will be decided by the surgeon depending upon the type of discrepancy that needs to be corrected.
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