title: Metaphyseal distraction for lower limb lengthening and correction of axial deformities.
abstract: Metaphyseal distraction with the Orthofix apparatus was performed on 10 patients (five femora and five tibiae). A retrospective review is presented. The follow-up time was 10-38 months. A satisfactory correction of leg length and axial deformity was achieved in all cases. There was no need for plating or bone grafting. All patients showed solid bony fusion at follow-up. Pin tract infections in seven patients resolved under antibiotic treatment. Problems of pin loosening and mechanical weakness of the distraction device are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Orthopaedic Hospital of the Invalid Foundation, Helsinki, Finland.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Schlenzka
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Poussa
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Osterman
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001852:Bone Lengthening / Q000379:methods* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005684:Gait; D006801:Humans; D007870:Leg Length Inequality / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices; D010027:Osteotomy; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies