These tools will no longer be maintained as of December 31, 2024. Archived website can be found here. PubMed4Hh GitHub repository can be found here. Contact NLM Customer Service if you have questions.


Pubmed for Handhelds

PUBMED FOR HANDHELDS

Search MEDLINE/PubMed

  • Title: Limb-length inequality: assessment and treatment options.
    Author: Stanitski DF.
    Journal: J Am Acad Orthop Surg; 1999; 7(3):143-53. PubMed ID: 10346823.
    Abstract:
    Assessment and treatment of limb-length inequality, particularly in the growing child, is a challenging task. Evaluation of the discrepancy requires an understanding of the significance of the disparity, as well as the natural history of the disorder, before formulation of a treatment plan. In the immature patient, consistent longitudinal data are essential to avoid pitfalls in the projection of ultimate length difference. Therapeutic options range from no treatment or use of a simple shoe lift to a surgical shortening or lengthening procedure. The current indication for lengthening is a disparity exceeding 5 to 6 cm. Epiphysiodesis or femoral shortening is useful for smaller discrepancies or for residual differences following a contralateral lengthening. Lengthening is done with a circular or cantilever external fixator, which may be combined with an intramedullary rod.
    [Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]