Safe Cosmetic Leg Lengthening for Short Stature: Long-term Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Limb lengthening is primarily used for discrepancies due to congenital or developmental issues.
• Cosmetic limb lengthening is less studied, despite patient interest.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of cosmetic limb lengthening using the Ilizarov device.
• To assess outcomes in patients seeking height increase for non-medical reasons.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 50 patients undergoing limb lengthening for cosmetic height increase (July 2002-June 2007).
• Application of Ilizarov ring external fixator with a maximum-stability technique.
• Postoperative physiotherapy to improve ankle function and prevent deformity.

Main Results:

• Excellent final outcomes in 49 out of 50 patients after a minimum 5-year follow-up.
• Patients could ambulate with a walker from the first postoperative week.
• One patient required additional surgery, highlighting the need for close monitoring.

Conclusions:

• The Ilizarov device, applied with a maximum-stability technique, is a safe and effective option for cosmetic limb lengthening.
• Close follow-up and physiotherapy are crucial for optimal results and complication prevention.
• This study provides the first long-term results for cosmetic limb lengthening using this method.