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[Humeral lengthening: case report].
Djordje Gajdobranski1, Dušan Marić, Aleksandra Mikov
1Institute for Health Protection of Children and Youth, Novi Sad, Serbia; Medical Faculty, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia. drgajdobranski@gmail.com
Srpski Arhiv Za Celokupno Lekarstvo
|October 1, 2013
Summary
This study demonstrates successful humerus lengthening using the Mitkovic compressive-distracting device. The method achieved significant bone length increase without needing bone grafting or plate fixation, restoring function and aesthetics.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Limb lengthening techniques
Background:
- Upper extremity length discrepancies are primarily cosmetic and less frequently surgically addressed than lower extremity issues.
- A 16-year-old patient presented with a 9 cm right humerus shortening.
Observation:
- The humerus shortening resulted from prior surgical treatment for a proximal humerus solitary bone cyst at age 10.
- Distraction osteogenesis was performed using a Mitkovic compressive-distracting device (Traffix).
Findings:
- Achieved 7.5 cm of humerus lengthening.
- Managed complications including minor suppuration and radial nerve paresthesias by adjusting the distraction rate.
- No additional plate fixation or bone grafting was required for complete bone reconstruction.
Implications:
- The Mitkovic device offers a viable solution for humerus lengthening, potentially avoiding complex reconstructive procedures.
- The technique allowed the patient to maintain daily activities during treatment, highlighting functional recovery potential.
