LIMB LENGTHENING USING WAGNER'S TECHNIQUE
Abstract
Introduction. Limb length discrepancy is a disabling anomaly that has many causes including congential, traumatic and paralytic. This study was designed to evaluate results and complications of Wagner's technique in lower limb lenghtening.
Methods. In this retrospective study results of the Wagner's technique in seventy paiteints during ten years were studied. Patients were followed for 1 to 9 years after operation with mean of 6 years. Results of operation, complications and paitients statisfaction were recorded.
Results. Among the 70 paitents 71% were male and 29% were female. The average time of paitients hospitalization was 6 days for each of first and second satges. The tibial and femoral lengthening were performed in the 84% and 16% respectively. Limb lengthening achieved minimally 4 - 5 cm and maximally 10 cm (mean=6.6cm). In 73%, the cause of discrepancy was paralytic and the other causes were traumatic and congenital anomalies. Complications rate were 47% totally. The most common complication was pin tract infection that was threated conservatively. Results of operation and satisfaction of the patients were good in 85% and fair in 15%.
Discussion. The Wagner's method of limb lengthening is a safe and simple method, with low complications and we recommend it for the treatment of lower limb discrepancy yet.
Methods. In this retrospective study results of the Wagner's technique in seventy paiteints during ten years were studied. Patients were followed for 1 to 9 years after operation with mean of 6 years. Results of operation, complications and paitients statisfaction were recorded.
Results. Among the 70 paitents 71% were male and 29% were female. The average time of paitients hospitalization was 6 days for each of first and second satges. The tibial and femoral lengthening were performed in the 84% and 16% respectively. Limb lengthening achieved minimally 4 - 5 cm and maximally 10 cm (mean=6.6cm). In 73%, the cause of discrepancy was paralytic and the other causes were traumatic and congenital anomalies. Complications rate were 47% totally. The most common complication was pin tract infection that was threated conservatively. Results of operation and satisfaction of the patients were good in 85% and fair in 15%.
Discussion. The Wagner's method of limb lengthening is a safe and simple method, with low complications and we recommend it for the treatment of lower limb discrepancy yet.
Keywords
Limb Lengthening, Wagner's Technique, Limb Length Discrapancy