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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

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Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
[Prolongation osteotomy of the humerus.].
Summary
This study demonstrates that semi-closed osteotomy effectively treats humerus shortening in 6 patients, achieving excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes. The procedure successfully corrected limb length discrepancies caused by various conditions.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Limb Reconstruction
Context:
- Asymmetric shortening of the humerus presents significant functional and cosmetic challenges.
- Treatment options for humerus shortening include limb lengthening procedures.
- Prolongation osteotomy is a surgical technique for correcting limb length discrepancies.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of semi-closed prolongation osteotomy for treating asymmetric humerus shortening.
- To assess the functional and cosmetic results following humerus lengthening procedures.
- To report complications and recovery times associated with humerus lengthening.
Summary:
- Six patients with humerus shortening (due to osteomyelitis, hypoplasia, or trauma) underwent semi-closed prolongation osteotomy.
- The mean age was 14.2 years, with mean shortening of 9 cm corrected by an average of 7.3 cm.
- Complete correction was achieved in all patients, with excellent or very good functional and cosmetic results, and a mean healing index of 27.3 days/cm.
Impact:
- Semi-closed prolongation osteotomy is a safe and effective method for correcting humerus shortening in pediatric and adult patients.
- The technique yields high rates of successful limb length correction and patient satisfaction.
- Understanding complication profiles, such as transient radial nerve neuropraxia, aids in surgical planning and patient counseling.
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