What Is Limb Lengthening?
Limb lengthening is a surgical procedure used to lengthen bones, replace missing bone or correct deformities in bone structure. The surgical technique used for limb lengthening was originally developed by Dr. Gavril A. Ilizarov in Russia in 1951. In a limb lengthening procedure, doctors attach an external frame to the affected limb. The structure supports the limb while growth is encouraged at the site of a fracture created during surgery. Doctors can now safely lengthen bones up to six inches. More than one stage of treatment may be required for extensive limb deformities or shortening. Limb Lengthening and TSRHC Physicians at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children developed the TRUE/LOK™ External Fixation System, a modification of Ilizarov’s treatment method, to treat patients with a variety of limb length discrepancies. The TRUE/LOK™ system requires a less complicated surgical procedure and allows for greater patient comfort during the lengthening process. The patented TRUE/LOK™
