Limb Lengthening Methods
Transform your life
with our advanced limb lengthening surgery methods.
Discover the
most effective and affordable options for you.
1. LON
Internal & External Combined
Features
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External / Internal: Combined
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Returning back to daily life: 15 days
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Bone Healing: 5-6 months
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External Fixator Usage: ✓
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Full Recovery: 9-12 months
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Max. Height Gain:
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Tibia: 5-7 cm
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Femur: 8-9 cm
2.PRECICE 2
Internal
Features
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External / Internal: Internal
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Returning back to daily life: 3 months
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Bone Healing: 5-6 months
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External Fixator Usage: X
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Full Recovery: 9-12 months
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Max. Height Gain:
3. PRECICE STRYDE
Internal
Features
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External / Internal: Internal
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Returning back to daily life: 1-2 weeks
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Bone Healing: 5-6 months
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External Fixator Usage: X
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Full Recovery: 9-12 months
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Max. Height Gain:
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Tibia: 5-7 cm
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Femur: 8 cm
What is limb lengthening surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery is a revolutionary procedure that utilizes the body's natural ability to regenerate new bone, allowing individuals to increase their height. The surgeon performs an osteotomy, carefully cutting the bone that needs to be lengthened. To ensure stability during the recovery process, the surgeon uses a variety of external and internal fixation devices or frames.
The recovery process is divided into two phases: the distraction phase and the recovery phase. During the distraction phase, the bone is gradually pulled apart to promote new bone growth. The specifics of this phase, including the frequency and amount of distraction, are tailored to each patient and can vary depending on the method used. Typically, the distraction rate is 0.25 mm or 0.33 mm per day, and the lengthening process takes approximately 60 days for 6 cm and 80 days for 8 cm.
During the recovery phase, the lengthened bone consolidates and heals. The patient gradually puts more weight on their legs and starts walking without support. After full recovery, all physical activities and sports can be resumed. Our clinic offers the most advanced and unique limb lengthening methods, including Precice Stryde, Precice 2, and LON, with the highest success rates and the most affordable prices.
How can I choose the most suitable limb lengthening method?
When choosing the most suitable limb lengthening method, there are several factors to consider.
1.The LON method is a combination of internal and external fixation, which allows for a maximum height gain of 5-7 cm for the tibia and 8-9 cm for the femur. It has a shorter recovery time for returning to daily life, at just 15 days after surgery, however, it should be noted that patients will have limited mobility due to the external fixators, and they must follow the surgeon's instructions carefully. Once the lengthening phase is over, the external fixators are removed and patients can return to their daily life and gradually put more weight on their legs as the bone consolidates over time. External fixator usage takes 2.5-3 months, with bone healing and full recovery taking 5-6 months and 9-12 months respectively. Additionally, this method requires wound and pin site care, as well as regular exercises and physiotherapy to support the healing process.
2. The Precice 2 method is an internal fixation method that uses a titanium nail. It allows for a maximum height gain of 6 cm for the tibia and 8 cm for the femur. During the lengthening phase, patients are required to use a wheelchair. Recovery time for returning to daily life is 3-4 months, with bone healing and full recovery taking 5-6 months and 9-12 months respectively. It also includes regular exercises and physiotherapy as part of the recovery process.
The Precice Stryde method was an internal fixation method that uses a weight-bearing nail, which allows patients to walk during the lengthening phase. It also allowed for a maximum height gain of 6 cm for the tibia and 8 cm for the femur. However, the production of this method has been stopped and it is not available worldwide.
What is the reason for the price difference between limb lengthening methods?
The main reason for the price difference between limb lengthening methods is the type of technology and equipment used. The LON method is a combination of internal and external fixation, which is generally less expensive than the Precice 2 method, which uses a magnetic titanium nail for internal fixation. Additionally, the Precice Stryde method, which allowed for weight-bearing during the lengthening phase, was even more expensive than the Precice 2 method, but is no longer available worldwide. The cost of the surgery also depends on various factors such as the hospital, surgeon's experience, and location.
1. LON Method
A cost-effective solution for advanced limb lengthening
The LON (Lengthening Over Nails) method is a popular limb lengthening technique that combines the use of intramedullary nails and external fixators. This method is preferred for its low cost, low risk, high success rate, and safety.
The procedure begins with the placement of an internal nail within the bone marrow by the surgeon. This nail is then attached to an external fixator during the distraction (lengthening) phase. Patients are able to walk during this phase with the external fixators on their legs. After the desired height is achieved, the external fixators are removed with minor surgery and the internal nails remain in the legs until full bone consolidation is achieved.
The LON method uses a telescopic monolateral external fixator system, made of biocompatible titanium and aluminum alloy, which is highly mechanically stable to bear the whole body weight. Additionally, it is MRI compatible and considered the most advanced extension system among its equivalents. Its minimalist design makes it easier to move during the lengthening process, offers a smoother lengthening experience, and allows patients to return to daily life earlier after surgery.
Advantages of LON Method
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Allows patients to achieve significant height increase of up to 6-7 cm in the tibia and 8-9 cm in the femur
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Short-term external fixator usage, typically between 70-90 days.
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Allows patients to walk during the lengthening phase, which helps speed up recovery
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Patients can start normal walking within 4-5 months after the surgery
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Leaves fewer surgical scars than fully external methods, such as Ilizarov
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Considered safe and affordable
Disadvantages of LON Method
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Requires regular dressing at pin sites to prevent the risk of infection
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Causes more scarring than internal methods
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External fixators may cause discomfort
Improve your quality of life with our advanced leg lengthening surgery and expert postoperative care and physiotherapy treatment.
Lengthening Process in the LON Method
In the LON method, the lengthening process is done 4 times a day, and 0.25 mm lengthening is provided in each process. Thus, the patient gains 1 mm in a day, 3 cm in 30 days, 6 cm in 60 days, and 8 cm in 80 days.
The lengthening process starts 3 days after the surgery at the hospital. The healthcare team performs the first lengthening process and teaches the patient how to do this process every day.
Step-by-Step to LON method limb lengthening surgery
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Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul and rest at the hotel
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Day 2: Meeting with the Doctor, examination, and preoperative tests
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Day 3: Surgery day (2-3 hours)
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Day 4: Post-surgery care in the hospital room
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Day 5: First steps after surgery
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Day 6-7: Rehabilitation in the private hospital room with bed exercises and short walks
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Day 8: First lengthening
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Day 9: Discharge from hospital
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Day 10: Beginning of physiotherapy and exercise program
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Day 60-80: Distraction Phase (Lengthening and Physiotherapy)
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Day 70-90: External fixator removal (LON Method)
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Day 70-150: Bone Consolidation and Transition to Normal Walking
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Day 150-365: Bone Consolidation and Full Recovery
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Is the LON method the right choice for me?
The LON method is a highly advanced and effective option for limb lengthening with treatment duration that is comparable to other leading methods such as Precice 2. It offers many advantages such as the ability to walk during the lengthening phase, a faster return to daily life, an affordable cost, and precision. However, it does require proper post-surgery care and rehabilitation.
At our clinic, we provide exceptional care and support to ensure a smooth recovery. Our team of experts will work with you to determine if the LON method is the best choice for you, taking into consideration your individual needs and goals. We provide a thorough comparison of different methods available, so you can make an informed decision and have peace of mind.
Resim:LON METHOD AFTER SURGERY
Precice 2
Innovative approach to limb lengthening
The Precice 2 limb lengthening system is a cutting-edge technology developed by Nuvasive, a US-based medical device manufacturer. This innovative system utilizes an intramedullary nail that is inserted into the bone marrow, allowing for precise and controlled lengthening of the bone using an external remote control (ERC). This eliminates the need for external fixation, which can be uncomfortable and unattractive for patients.
One of the major advantages of the Precice 2 system is that it offers a more comfortable and less painful experience for patients compared to traditional limb lengthening methods. The procedure is performed with small incisions, resulting in minimal surgical scars and pleasing patients with aesthetic concerns.
The Precice 2 nails, made of biocompatible titanium, provide support to the bone during the lengthening process. However, they are not able to bear the full weight of an adult patient. As a result, patients must use a wheelchair during the distraction phase.
The Precice 2 system also reduces the risk of complications associated with limb lengthening surgery, such as infection and nonunion, as it allows for both lengthening and shortening of the bone. Additionally, the nails can be removed one to two years after surgery with a minor procedure.
The Precice 2 limb lengthening system offers patients a safe, comfortable, and effective option for limb lengthening surgery, making it the preferred choice for many surgeons and patients. With the guidance of a renowned limb lengthening surgeon like Prof.Dr.Erbil Oğuz patients can be assured of the best possible outcome.
Advantages of Precice 2
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Safe and precise method of limb lengthening
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Allows for significant height increase up to 6cm in tibia and 8cm in femur
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Eliminates need for external fixation and reduces risk of infection
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Allows for greater freedom of movement during recovery
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Allows for normal walking within 4-5 months
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Minimizes surgical scars significantly, leaving fewer and less visible scars
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Disadvantages of Precice 2
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Precice 2 may slow down bone healing as weight bearing is limited during the healing phase, but patients receive physiotherapy and perform exercises to promote healing.
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Requires use of a wheelchair during the lengthening phase
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Cost may not be affordable for all patients
Step-by-Step Overview of the Precice 2 Limb Lengthening Process
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Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul and check-in at hotel
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Day 2: Meeting with surgeon and team, examination and preoperative tests
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Day 3: Surgery day
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Day 4: Post-surgery care and recovery in hospital room
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Day 5: Beginning of rehabilitation and first steps post-surgery
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Day 6-7: Continuing rehabilitation and exercises in hospital
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Day 8: Starting the limb lengthening process using the Precice 2 method
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Day 9: Discharge from hospital and continuing recovery at hotel
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Day 10: Beginning of physiotherapy and exercise program
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Day 60-80: Distraction Phase (Lengthening and Physiotherapy)
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Day 70-90: Gradually increasing weight-bearing on legs
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Day 70-150: Bone healing and transitioning to normal walking.
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Day 150-365: Full Bone Consolidation and Recovery
Is the Precice 2 method the right choice for me?
When considering if the Precice 2 method is the right choice for you, it's important to take into account your goals and budget. The Precice 2 is a safe and precise way to lengthen bones and achieve significant height increases, and it reduces the risk of infection and minimizes surgical scars. However, it should also be noted that the cost of this method may not be affordable for all patients.
At our clinic, our team of experts will work with you to determine if the Precice 2 is the best choice for you, taking into consideration your goals and budget. We provide a thorough comparison of different methods available to help you make an informed decision. With our support, you can have peace of mind during your recovery journey.
Precice Stryde
The weight-bearing solution for limb lengthening
Preliminary Note: The production of Stryde nails has been discontinued and is currently not available worldwide. We will update our patients with any progress or if it becomes available again in the market. We have a waiting list for patients who are interested in a weight-bearing limb lengthening system. If you would like to receive updates, please contact us and we will add you to the list.
Precice Stryde is Nuvasive's 3rd generation limb lengthening system, and it includes an implantable intramedullary nail, locking screws, reusable instruments, and a hand-held External Remote Control (ERC). The procedure is performed with minimal incisions in the leg, resulting in fewer surgical scars, which satisfies patients with aesthetic concerns compared to methods that require external fixation and eliminates the need for regular dressing and the risk of infection.
The principles of the Precice 2 and Precice Stryde methods are similar. However, the feature that differentiates the Precice Stryde from the Precice 2 is its ability to allow patients to walk and carry their entire body weight during the lengthening phase. This feature enables patients to return to their daily lives within a few weeks after surgery.
The Stryde nail can lengthen and shorten bone, making it easier to treat possible complications. Additionally, the nails are made of biocompatible hardened steel, allowing them to remain in the bone marrow after full recovery or to be removed with a minor operation. However, the production of Precice Stryde has been stopped due to the adverse cases reported.
Advantages of Precice Stryde
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Considered as the most advanced limb lengthening method worldwide
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Allows patients to lengthen up to 6 cm on tibias and 8 cm on femurs
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Allows patients to walk through the entire phases
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Allows patients to return to daily life in a few weeks
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It leaves fewer surgical scars than the methods that require external fixation
Disadvantages of Precice Stryde
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High cost
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Recalled due to reported adverse cases
Read this article to learn more about the possible risks, complications, and side effects of limb lengthening surgery.
Is the Precice Stryde the right choice for me?
The Precice Stryde is a weight-bearing limb lengthening system that is considered to be the most advanced method worldwide. It allows patients to lengthen up to 6 cm on tibias and 8 cm on femurs, and allows patients to walk through the entire lengthening process. It also allows patients to return to their daily life in just a few weeks and leaves fewer surgical scars than methods that require external fixation.
However, it is currently not available as production has been discontinued. For patients who don't have the time for a long treatment, they can choose to wait for the Stryde or any other new weight-bearing nails. But, if patients want to reach their desired height as soon as possible, they can consider other methods such as the Precice 2 or the LON method.
Our Services
Our services are designed to ensure that your experience with limb lengthening is as comfortable, safe, and successful as possible.
Consultation
Our team of experts, led by Prof.Dr.Erbil Oğuz will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and the best possible treatment plan for your limb lengthening or deformity correction surgery. We will also provide you with detailed information on prices, methods, and options. To schedule an appointment, contact us now via email or WhatsApp
Surgery
We specialize in a wide range of limb lengthening and deformity correction surgeries, including femur, tibia, and humerus lengthening, bowlegs and knock knees correction, leg length discrepancy, and revision surgery. Led by Prof. Dr.Erbil Oğuz, our team ensures safe and effective surgeries with the best possible care.
Preoperative
Before your surgery, we will perform a thorough evaluation to ensure that you are a good candidate for limb lengthening surgery. We will also provide you with detailed preoperative instructions to help you prepare for your surgery. This may include imaging studies and other necessary tests.
Postoperative
We provide a complete post-op package including follow-up appointments, physiotherapy, and necessary treatments. Under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Erbil Oğuz, we ensure the best results through regular check-ups and close communication with patients. We also offer comfortable and safe accommodation close to our clinic.
Lengthening surgery may not be suitable for everyone who wants to have surgery, as it is not an easy operation with zero risk. First of all, the person who wants to have surgery should see this as an important problem and should have information about the risks of surgery. Cosmetic lengthening surgeries can generally be performed until the age of 40-50 after the necessary examinations are made for those with growth plate closures.
Rest in bed on the first day after surgery. On the 2nd day, you can get up and meet your needs with a walker. Depending on your condition, you stay in the hospital for 3-5 days and spend the rest of the time at home. You need to be a little patient in the first two months after the surgery, that is, during the extension period. Because every day you will grow 1 mm. Over time, tension may build up in your leg. But this is temporary. After the stretching is over, the pain decreases and the tension starts to end. If you are in another city, you can have your controls done in your area and send your x-ray films to your doctor on WhatsApp.
For those who feel short, 1 mm per day is not less. You will also notice that your legs are getting longer day by day. All you have to do is look in the mirror every day. Over time, you realize that things are lower and higher. People around you also notice that you are getting taller.
Since the legs are generally shorter than the body in short people, the lengthening amount of 5-8 cm, which is performed with a single operation, does not usually create a distorted image in the body ratio. As long as it's not excessive, people with long legs usually look taller than they are and look better
Lengthening surgery is a demanding, long-lasting and expensive procedure. With a good doctor, the right method and good post-operative care, patients usually start to return to their daily lives. How long the recovery will take is related to the quality of self-care of both the doctor and the patient.
5-8 cm lengthening occurs in a single session. Those who wish can have surgery on both the lower and upper legs and grow 10-15 cm. Flexibility of your leg is also important in extensions. The more flexible your legs are, the more comfortable you will be during the stretch.
You can also go outside or walk around the house while the device is on your leg. In fact, walking is recommended as long as it is not too extreme. At the same time, you can do the work that you do not stand up for much.
The scars that will form on your legs vary according to the surgical method. While the most scars are formed in the ilizarov method, the least traces are formed in the Precice method. As a matter of fact, these scars can be reduced unnoticed by aesthetic methods.
Since both leg (length) lengthening surgeries are within the scope of aesthetics, all hospital, material and doctor expenses are covered by the patient. In this respect, unfortunately, there is no state support for lengthening.
We cannot write the exact numerical answer of this question here. Because the prices vary according to each method applied. While the most affordable prices are for Ilizarov, the most expensive method is lengthening with intramedullary nails.