Classical methods with an external fixator such as Ilizarov and Holyfix require a long period of external fixation until the full consolidation of bones. Patients must keep the device attached to their legs once the bones are completely strengthened. However, a shorter duration of external fixation has led to the development of new techniques such as Lengthening Over Nail (LON, also known as ) the combined method. This brings out a huge advantage in terms of removing the external fixator earlier. For instance, patients only spend around 2 or 3 months with external devices of LON on their legs compared to 9 or 12 months in completely external methods such as Ilizarov and Holyfix. When compared to traditional lengthening treatments, a technique focused on offering better comfort and internal bracing for the regenerated bone should have a lower complication rate, as well as simplicity of application and cost-effectiveness. In addition to all of these, Holyfix and LON (The Combined Method) apparatus have such a superior design allowing the accelerated bone formation and transferring the burden from the bone without any shortening (Dynamization).
External Fixator;
Its role is to be scaffolding outside of the leg. Stated in other words, it is a stabilizing frame made of strong metal to keep the bone stable during the lengthening period. Metal bars are attached to the bones with pins as can be seen from the picture below. The device is kept between two to three months depending on the desired height.
Intramedullary Nail;
Intramedullary nail or rod is used as internal fixation and is made of titanium alloy. The doctor decides the size of the nail by reviewing the X-ray images. (8,5 mm, 10,7 mm, 11,5 mm or 12,5 mm) During the operation, it is surgically embedded into the bone cavity. As the nail is biocompatible, it does not contain any elements that will cause harm to the body.
If LON is chosen as a surgery method for limb lengthening, there are three operations that are performed;
Advantages;
Disadvantages;
For the reasons listed above, around 70-80% of our patients choose the LON method.
It is equivalent to the conventional methods ( Ilizarov or Holyfix ) in terms of postoperative scars. While some people may find the scars disturbing, others may find them too insignificant to notice and worry about. The surgical wounds are stitched with dissolvable sutures and covered with waterproof dressings. Nevertheless, the scar marks will fade away as time passes by, and will not be eyeful. Especially, our surgeon ties off stitches aesthetically. If you think you may have sensitive skin against scar marks, you may find out some useful tips for the ways of minimizing the scar marks by watching the video below.
As in any other surgery, there are always risks and complications that might occur. As long as the doctor applies the right technique, the hygienic environment is established at the hospital, and proper post-operative care is provided, the risks and the complications are preventable and treatable. As Wannabtaller Team, the first priority is always patients’ safety for us. Yet, every person has a unique physiology and some unpredictable conditions might occur such as non-bone union or slow bone union. You may visit our blog writing to find out more information related to this issue; "Limb lengthening Side effects, Complications and Risks"
How many months should I stay for this procedure?
Limb lengthening is not a simple procedure to go through. Considering broken bones and the recovery process, patients should spare a considerable amount of time for it. Notably, the first 3 months are a crucial period for patients in order to get through the process healthily as much as possible. The lengthening period needs to be observed closely by the doctor apart from the recovery, the functionality, and the health condition of the patient. Besides all these, patients must take a proper physiotherapy session from a physiotherapist who is well familiar with the post-operative process of limb lengthening. Patients desiring to have limb lengthening surgery need to stay here for at least 3/4 months by taking into account all these factors.
We provide patient accommodation, post-operative care, and physiotherapy services at Hampton by Hilton Istanbul. For other accommodation facilities and prices, please visit Accommodation services page.
All inclusive: 3,250 $ 2,950 $/ per month
(3 month-package: 8,500 $)
