Precice 2 system (NuVasive Specialised Orthopaedics (NSO)) offers a less-invasive procedure in Limb Lengthening surgery. It has been used since 2011, and has been one of the most preffered method by most patients so far in terms of amenity and biological safety. Elongation is achieved using intramedullary techniques, with nails that are fully implantable in the patient. The two ends of the telescopic nais slowly pull apart creating a gap in the bone. In addition to this, there is no external metal device attached to the legs. These are the most notable advantages over traditional methods used external fixators which have been related to infuriating discomfort, prolonged treatment times, and the risk of pin-tract infections, which may lead to osteomyelitis.
PRECICE 2 nails are American-made intramedullary nails used for limb lengthening. An External Remote Controller (ERC) is utilized to lengthen the nail, which interacts with magnets within the nail.
External Remote Controller (ERC);
External Remote Controller is a portable magnetic device that makes the elongation occur by pushing the button on it. Thus, controlled lengthening phase is provided thanks to it.
Intramedullary Nail;
Intramedullary nail, or rod is used as an 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.
Important Information about the nail: Patients weighing up to 40-70 kg are permitted to walk with the support of a walker depending on the size of the nail and limb being treated. However, patients are allowed to walk in activities that do not put too much weight on the nail under the supervision of the doctor. For instance, going to toilet or walking exercises in physiotherapy sessions. Apart from this, a wheelchair must be used during the lengthening period owing to the weight-bearing capacity of the nails. Because, the mechanism may be damaged because of putting too much pressure on the legs.
If Precice 2 is chosen as a surgery method for limb lengthening, there are two operations that are performed;
Advantages;
Disadvantages;
As a few incisions are made for each leg compared to the classical methods, the scar marks will not be notable too much. 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 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 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: 2950 € 1,970 €/ per month