Electromagnetic rod in lower-limb lengthening: Technical note for shaft osteotomy

Abstract

Purpose: Long bone lengthening procedures are paramount in the treatment of limb length discrepancies. We witnessed a revolution in the treatment paradigm of this pathology with the development of expandable intramedullary rods. Endomedular nailing might be technically demanding and some steps are critical for success. The aim of authors is to describe a technical note of the PRECICE system that may ease femoral nailing and fixation: the nail can be advanced through the femur and proximal and distal fixation performed previous to complete femoral osteotomy. Materials and methods: The authors present a case series of XX patients in which the limb lengthening has been performed with partiaosteotomy with Gigli saw, nail advancement, proximal and distal fixation, and osteotomy completion at the end of the procedure. Results: After 18 consecutive limb (femoral) lengthening operations with this technical variation in PRECICE, nail patients presented no significanlower limb length discrepancy. There were no records of rotational deformities, nonunion, or infection. Material failure was not reported. Conclusion: This technical note is another positive variable that can help to ease the procedure, minimize possible complications, and confirm magnetic expandable nails as the gold standard technique in limb lengthening procedures and it might be applied to other nailing systemfor limb lengthening procedures.