Limb Lengthening / Limb Deformity
The staff at the Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children have spoken nationally on the subject of Limb Lengthening and Limb Deformity, and are experts in the field. With varied methods to treat the condition, from surgical intervention to exercises, children can be effectively treated in a myriad of ways.
Definition
Limb defects occur when a portion of the fails to form normally when the baby is developing in utero or, can be caused some kind of trauma or a tumor or infection that has left their limb short or crooked. A variety of procedures are used for the patient with limb length inequalities and upper and lower extremity deformities.
Causes
The cause of congenital limb defects is unknown.
Risk Factors
As the cause is unknown, risk factors are generally unknown as well.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is done through examination by a physician.
Treatment
Surgical Care
With the Ilizarov Method, a proven technique for correcting limb deformity, a frame is attached to the outside of a limb, using pins and wires such as with the Taylor Spatial Frame and the Monolateral Fixator. Over time, the frame is gradually adjusted until the shape and length of the leg are corrected. The Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children uses different devices to lengthen limbs or deal with limb deformity including rods and plates. Lengthening with rods is also used.
Another method used by the Hospital for Joint Disease Center for Children, Distraction Osteogenesis, is a process in which the bone is cut during surgery and slowly distracted, allowing for new bone to form in the lengthened space between the cut bone ends.
Non-surgical Care
Splints or braces can be used with this condition, in addition to treating the patient with physical and occupational therapy.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent limb defects.
Resources
The New York Institute for Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction
http://www.med.nyu.edu/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/limb.html
The Wallace B. Lehman, M.D. Center for Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/wallace.html
The Center for Pediatric Rehabilitation and Pediatric Medicine
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/ped_rehab.html
The NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy Department
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/rehabilitation.html
Child Life Program at Center for Children
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/child_life.html
Music Therapy at Center for Children
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/music_therapy.html
To make an appointment at the NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children, please call 212-598-6205