Lengthening Techniques

1.2 Patient Education

• Detailed Information: The patient is provided with comprehensive information about the LON method, expected outcomes, potential risks, and the timeline of the procedure.
• Physical Therapy Guidance: Pre-surgical physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen muscles and prepare the body for the upcoming procedure.

Phase 2: Operative Phase

2.1 Surgery

• Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
• Corticotomy: A controlled surgical cut is made in the bone (usually the femur or tibia) to create a gap for new bone growth.
• Nail Insertion: An intramedullary nail (a metal rod) is inserted into the bone, providing internal support during the lengthening process.
• External Fixator Application: An external fixator is attached to the bone through small incisions, allowing gradual bone distraction and lengthening.

Phase 3: Post-Operative Phase

3.1 Early Post-Surgery Care

• Hospital Stay: The patient stays in the hospital for a few days to monitor vital signs, pain management, and the initial response to surgery.
• Initial Recovery: The patient begins gentle movement and physical therapy under supervision to prevent stiffness and promote circulation.

3.2 Bone Lengthening Process

• Gradual Distraction: Using the external fixator, the bone is gradually lengthened by 1 mm per day, encouraging new bone formation in the gap.
• Regular Monitoring: Frequent follow-up visits with X-rays to monitor bone growth, and alignment, and ensure that the lengthening process is progressing as planned.

Phase 4: Recovery Phase

4.1 Consolidation Phase

• Nail Fixation: Once the desired length is achieved, the external fixator is removed, and the intramedullary nail continues to provide internal support as the bone heals and consolidates.
• Physical Therapy: Intensive physical therapy is crucial during this phase to regain strength, mobility, and function in the lengthened limb.

4.2 Final Recovery

• Monitoring Healing: Continuous follow-up appointments to ensure proper bone healing and alignment, with X-rays and clinical assessments.
• Nail Removal (if needed): After full recovery, the intramedullary nail may be removed in a minor surgical procedure, depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation.
• Return to Normal Activities: Gradual return to daily activities, sports, and full weight-bearing as the bone fully strengthens, typically taking 6 to 12 months.

Phase 1: Pre-Operative Phase

1.1 Consultation and Evaluation

• Initial Assessment: The process begins with a thorough consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. This includes reviewing the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and performing detailed imaging studies such as X-rays and MRIs.
• Customized Treatment Plan: A personalized surgical plan is developed, considering the patient's specific bone structure, desired length increase, and overall health status.
• Pre-Operative Preparations: Pre-surgical preparations include necessary laboratory tests, physical conditioning, and psychological counseling to ensure that the patient is fully prepared for the procedure.

1.2 Patient Education

• Detailed Information: Patients receive comprehensive information about the Precice 2.2 method, including expected outcomes, potential risks, and the procedure timeline.
• Physical Therapy Guidance: Guidance on physical exercises is provided to strengthen muscles and prepare the body for surgery.

Phase 2: Operative Phase

2.1 Surgery

• Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient’s comfort and safety during the operation.
• Corticotomy: A controlled surgical cut is made in the bone (usually the femur or tibia) to create a gap where new bone will form.
• Precice 2.2 Implant Insertion: The Precice 2.2 intramedullary nail, a highly advanced and magnetically adjustable device, is inserted into the bone. This device will facilitate the gradual lengthening process.
• Incision Closure: The surgical incisions are carefully closed, and the area is bandaged.

Phase 3: Post-Operative Phase

3.1 Early Post-Surgery Care

• Hospital Stay: The patient remains in the hospital for a few days for close monitoring, pain management, and to ensure a positive initial recovery.
• Initial Recovery: Patients are encouraged to begin gentle movement and physical therapy shortly after surgery to promote healing and prevent stiffness.

3.2 Bone Lengthening Process

• Magnetic Adjustment: The Precice 2.2 device allows for non-invasive bone lengthening using an external magnetic controller. The bone is lengthened by approximately 1 mm per day, encouraging new bone formation.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits, including X-rays, are scheduled to monitor bone growth, alignment, and to adjust the lengthening process as needed.

Phase 4: Recovery Phase

4.1 Consolidation Phase

• Ongoing Support: As the bone reaches the desired length, the focus shifts to bone consolidation, where the new bone hardens and strengthens. The Precice 2.2 nail continues to provide internal support.
• Physical Therapy: Continued physical therapy is crucial to regain strength, flexibility, and normal function in the lengthened limb.

4.2 Final Recovery

• Monitoring Healing: The patient’s progress is continuously monitored through follow-up appointments, ensuring proper bone healing and alignment.
• Nail Removal (if required): Depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation, the Precice 2.2 nail may be removed in a minor surgical procedure once full recovery is achieved.
• Return to Normal Activities: Gradual return to daily activities, sports, and full weight-bearing is expected as the bone fully heals, typically over a period of 6 to 12 months.