Retrograde Femur Technique for Motorized Internal Limb Lengthening

Abstract

Deformities of the femur that combine deviations of axis and torsion with length discrepancies are seen quite often. Nevertheless, the surgical treatment can be demanding, especially if fully implantable lengthening nails are used for simultaneous lengthening and deformity correction. The technique of retrograde insertion of a lengthening nail into the femur offers a wider range for correction and allows the treatment of even complex deformities with a single-step procedure. The key to successful application of the technique is meticulous preoperative analysis and planning. The surgical procedure should follow a standardized protocol to avoid pitfalls. A complete overview of the technique of retrograde insertion of lengthening nails into the femur is given.