Csonthosszabbítás

Csonthosszabbítás, also known as limb lengthening, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the length of a bone. It is primarily used to correct limb length discrepancies, where one leg or arm is significantly shorter than the other. This condition can arise from congenital differences, trauma, infection, or certain medical conditions affecting bone growth.

The process typically involves breaking the bone surgically, a procedure called osteotomy. After the osteotomy, a device is attached to the bone to gradually distract the two segments. This distraction is done in small increments, usually less than a millimeter per day, allowing new bone tissue to form in the gap. This new bone formation is a natural healing process that is stimulated by the controlled separation of the bone ends.

There are two main types of devices used: external fixators and internal lengthening nails. External fixators are frames with pins or wires that pass through the skin and bone, providing external support and a mechanism for distraction. Internal lengthening nails are placed inside the bone marrow cavity and can be adjusted electromagnetically from outside the body. The choice of device depends on the patient's age, the bone being lengthened, and the surgeon's preference.

The lengthening process can take several months, followed by a consolidation period where the newly formed bone hardens. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are crucial throughout the process to regain strength, mobility, and function. While effective, csonthosszabbítás is a complex procedure with potential risks and complications, including infection, nerve damage, joint stiffness, and non-union of the bone. Therefore, it is performed by specialized orthopedic surgeons.