A 27-year-old female patient suffered a distal femur fracture on the right side at the age of 12, which was initially stabilized with an intramedullary nail. During the subsequent course of growth, shortening of the femur of more than 4 cm and a valgus deformity (knock-knee) developed. In order to avoid a permanent shoe elevation and an incorrect load in the knee joint, there was an indication for surgical corrective measures.
Photo before surgery
Long Standing Radiograph (LSR) before surgery
Course of the thigh lengthening
In a single operation, the thigh was straightened and a FITBONE intramedullary distraction nail was implanted. After 4 days, the patient was discharged from the hospital. During the subsequent 6-week lengthening phase, the patient performed stretching exercises on her own and regularly visited ZEM-Germany for check-ups. After 3 months, the bone was already able to tolerate full weight-bearing.
At the end of the treatment, both legs were of equal length and straight. The patient was able to run and exercise without restriction. The scars had healed almost invisibly.
Photo after surgery
Long standing radiograph after surgery