Limb Length Discrepancy - Making Uneven Legs Even!

With the advancement in the medical field, we are blessed to have doctors who specialize in various fields. We have cardiologists who specialize in the treatment of the heart, orthopedics who specialize in treating disorders that are related to the development and growth of muscles, skeleton, and joints in children and neurologists that determine treatment for the brain. Spine and limb deformities mainly occur in children as their bodies are still growing and they react differently to disorders, infections and injuries. Some of the deformities of the limb and spine that are treated by orthopedics include clubfoot, scoliosis, and limb length discrepancy.

Limb Length Discrepancy
Limb length discrepancy is referred to as a deformity when the legs and arms differ in their length. The difference in the length of legs and arms in several cases does not cause any change in the quality of life or in its functioning. However, in certain cases when there is an extreme difference in the length of the legs and the arms, the health of the patient is affected to a great extent. Limb length discrepancy is also caused due to injury to the leg, bone disease or due to bone infections that occur during growth. Depending on the severity of the injury or bone disease it becomes very difficult for the individual to even walk. In certain cases, when the condition is not very severe, then to help the patient to walk comfortably a shoe lift is suggested. It is only in extreme conditions that orthopedics suggest limb length surgery mainly to correct the discrepancy.

Limb Lengthening Surgery
Future proof and innovative solutions are provided these days to the patients for bone reconstruction. The surgery for limb lengthening is performed in many countries all over the world and by professional orthopedics. The patient is at first put under anesthesia after which a large slit is made in the legs, all the way through. The leg bone is sawed, after which a supporting bracket is placed which the patient needs to wear for nearly a year or till the completion of the procedure.

The area of the bone that is fractured is widened every week by the patient by inserting a key into the bracket and by turning it a little. Healing of the bone happens over time and two inches can be added to the height of the patient in six months. The bracket used during the surgery for the legs are very bulky and it is very important that the patient does not put more pressure on them. Immense pain is caused during this time as the limbs are bound to crutches. Hence, proper care should be taken to avoid more stress on the limbs.