Limb Length Discrepancy Treatment in India
Surgical correction of unequal leg lengths in children using growth modulation or lengthening techniques.
Overview
Symptoms & Indications
This surgery may be recommended if you experience:
Visible difference in leg lengths when standing
Limping or abnormal gait pattern
Hip, knee, or back pain
One shoulder appearing lower
Scoliosis or spinal curvature
Difficulty running or sports participation
Uneven shoe wear pattern
Fatigue with walking or standing
Pelvic tilt when standing
Compensatory toe-walking on shorter side
Procedure Details
Duration
1-2 hours for epiphysiodesis, 2-4 hours for lengthening
Anesthesia
General Anesthesia
Preparation for Surgery
Full-length standing X-rays (scanogram) to measure exact discrepancy. Growth charts and skeletal age assessment. Discussion of treatment options based on age and remaining growth. Pre-operative physiotherapy if needed.
Surgical Steps
General anesthesia
For Epiphysiodesis: Small incision over growth plate
Insertion of tension band plates or screws to slow growth
Or for Lengthening: Application of external fixator (Ilizarov)
Or insertion of internal lengthening nail (PRECICE)
Corticotomy (controlled bone cut) for lengthening
Wound closure
Post-op X-rays to confirm hardware position
For lengthening: Gradual distraction begins after latency period
Recovery Timeline
What to expect during your recovery journey
Initial healing
For epiphysiodesis: Walking with crutches, weight-bearing as tolerated. For lengthening: Pin site care, learning distraction protocol.
Mobilization
For epiphysiodesis: Return to normal activities. For lengthening: Daily lengthening adjustments (1mm/day), physiotherapy, ongoing monitoring.
Lengthening phase completion
For lengthening: Lengthening goal achieved, consolidation phase begins. Bone healing monitored with X-rays.
Consolidation and hardware removal
For lengthening: External fixator or nail removed when bone fully healed. Gradual return to activities.
Full recovery
Complete bone remodeling, return to all sports and activities. Annual follow-ups to monitor growth.
Growth monitoring
For epiphysiodesis: Hardware removed at skeletal maturity. Regular checks until growth complete.
Tips for Faster Recovery
For epiphysiodesis: Minimal restrictions, quick recovery
For lengthening: Strict pin site hygiene to prevent infection
Perform lengthening adjustments exactly as prescribed
Attend all physiotherapy sessions during lengthening
Report any signs of infection immediately
Keep weight-bearing within prescribed limits
Take calcium and vitamin D supplements
Be patient - lengthening takes 6-12 months total
Avoid contact sports during lengthening
Regular X-rays to monitor bone formation
Mental health support important during long treatment
Follow activity restrictions until doctor clearance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this procedure
Q1.What causes limb length discrepancy in children?
Q2.How much discrepancy requires treatment?
Q3.What is epiphysiodesis and when is it done?
Q4.How does limb lengthening work?
Q5.Is limb lengthening painful?
Q6.What is the maximum amount you can lengthen?
Q7.What are risks of lengthening surgery?
Q8.How long does limb lengthening take?
Q9.Can my child play sports after treatment?
Q10.What is the cost of LLD treatment in India?
Related Procedures
Limb Lengthening Surgery (Distraction Osteogenesis) in India
Surgical procedure to gradually lengthen shortened bones using external fixators or internal lengthening nails to correct leg length discrepancy or increase height
Bowlegs Correction (Genu Varum Correction) in India
Surgical correction of bowlegs (genu varum) in children and adolescents through guided growth or corrective osteotomy to achieve normal limb alignment
Knock-Knees Correction (Genu Valgum Treatment) in India
Surgical correction of inward-angled knees using guided growth or corrective osteotomy to restore normal leg alignment and prevent long-term knee problems
Clubfoot Correction Surgery in India
Comprehensive surgical treatment to correct congenital clubfoot deformity in children, restoring normal foot position and function.
Considering This Surgery?
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