Leg lengthening is a procedure whereby limbs can be lengthened using a process called distraction osteogenesis. This process harnesses the power of nature to create new tissue – almost like magic.

Leg lengthening has been around for a long time, but newer advances in pre-op planning, surgical techniques and devices have made the surgery a lot safer and more predictable.

The vast majority of limb lengthenings are done for discrepancies, where the one limb is shorter than the other due to trauma, infection, growth disturbance or congenital conditions. In a small number of individuals limbs are lengthened to increase stature. It is critical that, regardless of the reason for lengthening, the surgery should be performed by an experienced team.

The process involves performing a controlled cut (osteotomy) in the bone and then gradually pulling the bone ends apart at around 1mm per day using a specialised orthopaedic device. Gradually new bone and soft tissue is formed and the limb lengthened.

Devices used for this purpose traditionally were external fixators. Nowadays we also have intra-medullary nail devices available to provide all-internal lengthening options.

With literally hundreds of successful segment lengthenings, our practice brings experience to the table. With experience comes safety.