Limb lengthening surgeries are becoming increasingly safe and effective thanks to technological advancements. The Lengthening Over Nail (LON) method is one of the most popular and widely used techniques we offer at Orthosolve. This method combines an external fixator (external frame) with an intramedullary nail (a nail placed inside the bone) to provide an efficient lengthening process for patients.
JOURNEY OF LIMB LENGTHENING WITH LENGTHENING OVER NAIL (LON) METHOD
JOURNEY OF LIMB LENGTHENING WITH LENGTHENING OVER NAIL (LON) METHOD
This approach utilizes a dual-device strategy. During the procedure, a metal nail is inserted into the bone’s canal to provide stability after the lengthening is complete. Concurrently, an outside device (external fixator) is employed to facilitate the elongation of the surgically sectioned bone.
How is the LON Method Applied?
Surgical Phase: First, an osteotomy (bone cut) is performed on the area where lengthening is required.
Application of External Fixator: An external fixator is placed on the leg or thigh bone to initiate the lengthening process.
Use of Intramedullary Nail: An intramedullary nail is inserted into the bone to ensure stability once the external fixator is removed.
Lengthening Process: The patient starts the bone lengthening process about 5-7 days after surgery. On average, 1 mm of lengthening is performed per day.
Removal of the Fixator: Once the bone reaches the desired length, the external fixator is removed, while the intramedullary nail remains inside to support complete healing.
Advantages of the LON Method
- The duration of the external fixator is shorter compared to other methods.
- The Orthosolve method provides greater stability during the long bone healing process.
- It is a more cost-effective solution compared to other techniques.
- Patients can return to their daily lives more quickly after completing the lengthening process.
Pre-Surgery Period: A Gentle Beginning
The Heart-to-Heart Consultation: You and your orthopedic doctor sit down together, talking about your unique needs and exploring how the LON method might be the right path for you.
- Pre-surgical Examinations: Using the best medical imaging, like X-rays or other scans, we take a caring look at your tibia and fibula to understand their current state and help us plan your surgery with utmost care.
- Preparing with Love: With lots of support, we’ll guide you through the steps leading up to surgery, including adapting your diet, exercise, and medication routines in a way that respects your body and mind.
Surgery: A Compassionate Intervention
- The Gentle Procedure: With utmost care, we perform the osteotomies and put in place the external fixator. Your lengthening journey starts slowly and steadily, just like the natural growth of a tree.
- The Stretch of Love: Using the external fixator, we carefully encourage your bone to extend itself gradually. This phase may last several weeks to months, depending on your goal. Regular visits to our clinic will be like catching up with a friend – a chance to monitor and celebrate your progress.
- A New Phase: Nail Insertion and External Fixator Removal: Once we achieve the desired length, we begin the next part of your journey. We insert an intramedullary nail into your lengthened tibia, and the external fixator, having done its job, is gently removed. The nail is then lovingly secured to help you maintain your new height.
Surgery: A Compassionate Intervention
- The Gentle Procedure: With utmost care, we perform the osteotomies and put in place the external fixator. Your lengthening journey starts slowly and steadily, just like the natural growth of a tree.
- The Stretch of Love: Using the external fixator, we carefully encourage your bone to extend itself gradually. This phase may last several weeks to months, depending on your goal. Regular visits to our clinic will be like catching up with a friend – a chance to monitor and celebrate your progress.
- A New Phase: Nail Insertion and External Fixator Removal: Once we achieve the desired length, we begin the next part of your journey. We insert an intramedullary nail into your lengthened tibia, and the external fixator, having done its job, is gently removed. The nail is then lovingly secured to help you maintain your new height.
Healing: The Nature’s Way
- Consolidation and Healing: This phase is all about letting nature do its work. We let your bone heal and consolidate around the nail, just like a tree solidifying its roots. Regular follow-up visits and imaging tests help us monitor your healing journey with love and care.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: This is a loving practice that starts now and continues throughout the healing phase. The goal is to keep your joints mobile, reduce scar tissue, and aid your overall recovery, all with the patience and gentleness of a nurturing caregiver.
- Final Care: The surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment, just to make sure your lengthened tibia is healing well and aligned correctly.
Remember, maintaining a heartfelt communication with your healthcare team and following their loving guidance is key to your healing. By understanding each step of this caring procedure, you can prepare your heart and mind for the journey ahead.
Healing: The Nature’s Way
- Consolidation and Healing: This phase is all about letting nature do its work. We let your bone heal and consolidate around the nail, just like a tree solidifying its roots. Regular follow-up visits and imaging tests help us monitor your healing journey with love and care.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: This is a loving practice that starts now and continues throughout the healing phase. The goal is to keep your joints mobile, reduce scar tissue, and aid your overall recovery, all with the patience and gentleness of a nurturing caregiver.
- Final Care: The surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment, just to make sure your lengthened tibia is healing well and aligned correctly.
- Remember, maintaining a heartfelt communication with your healthcare team and following their loving guidance is key to your healing. By understanding each step of this caring procedure, you can prepare your heart and mind for the journey ahead.
