Have you heard of limb-lengthening surgery? This medical treatment is fast becoming one that has taken the world by storm.
Gone are the days when people were content with their short stature or visible discrepancies in their limbs. These days, many have begun turning to medical professionals to assist them in correcting these visible differences in an effort to improve their outward appearances.
What is limb-lengthening surgery?
Limb lengthening is a procedure to lengthen the bones in the arms or legs.
The International Centre for Limb Lengthening further explains:
“This is done as a gradual process, so that the bones and soft tissues (skin, muscles, nerves, etc.) slowly increase in length. Typically, the process takes several months. Limb lengthening can also be combined with gradual or acute deformity correction.”
The reasons for individuals opting to have this surgery done may vary. According to a South African-based Orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Jason du Plessis, three of the common reasons include:
- Congenital conditions: This refers to individuals born with conditions like dwarfism or limb length discrepancies who benefit from limb lengthening procedures to achieve a more balanced stature.
- Trauma: Patients who have uneven limb lengths because of trauma may want to restore symmetry and function
- Skeletal abnormalities: “Conditions such as leg length inequality due to skeletal abnormalities or deformities can be effectively addressed through limb lengthening,” explains the above-mentioned source.
While the procedure is reported to have a high success rate, Cleveland Clinic highlights that as with any surgery there are possible risks involved.
These include:
- Bone that doesn’t consolidate (harden) properly.
- Bone that doesn’t reach the desired length.
- Damage to muscles or nerves.
- Infections at the incision site or in the bone.
- Pin-site infections in people who have external devices.
- Stiffness in joints or muscles in the lengthened arm or leg
Need more information regarding the procedure? It is best to consult a medical professional for a better understanding.
Also see: Nadia Nakai Admits to Undergoing Surgery on Beyond Bragga
