[Callus distraction lengthening of the tibia with the intramedullary kinetic nail (case report)]

In this report the first experience with callus distraction lengthening using the intramedullary kinetic nail is described. This was performed on a left tibia with a total shortening of 34 mm. The distraction phase lasted 36 days and the rate of distraction was 0.95 mm per day. The full weight-bearing of the treated lower extremity was allowed at 12 weeks after surgery. Complete consolidation of the callus was achieved at 112 days and the consolidation index was 3.21 days/mm. No serious complications were recorded during the post-operative period. At 12 months after surgery, the patient showed a full range of motion in the knee, his ankle range of motion was S 15-0-35, and he achieved an excellent functional outcome on evaluation by Paley's classification.