The lengthening of short upper extremity amputation stumps

Short upper extremity amputation stumps are difficult to fit with an appropriate-level prosthesis. Fitting at a more proximal level generally results in decreased function. Options in the past have included stump and prosthetic modification, both of which provide limited improvement in function. Anecdotal reports of lengthening short amputation stumps have been published. This article reviews our experience with lengthening short upper extremity amputation stumps in children.

All patients who underwent an upper extremity stump lengthening at Shriners Hospital Los Angeles with at least 1-year follow-up were included. Charts and radiographs were retrospectively reviewed and prosthetic use preoperatively and postoperatively, complications, and additional procedures were documented. Stump length was measured on radiographs as the length between the proximal flexion crease and the tip of the bone.

Eleven patients with 14 amputation stumps underwent lengthening. Mean stump length increase was 264% (4 cm). Nine patients desired prosthetic fitting; all except 1 were able to be fit with an appropriate-level prosthesis. Two of the 9 patients reported only using the prosthesis on rare occasions. The 2 remaining patients underwent lengthening to improve function but did not desire a prosthesis preoperatively.

Lengthening is a viable but controversial option for very short upper extremity amputation stumps and may result in better function and/or more appropriate prosthetic fitting. Complications and additional procedures are common. Soft tissue coverage seems to be the main limiting factor to lengthening.