Limb Reconstruction

What is Limb Reconstruction?

Limb reconstruction refers to techniques whereby the biological potential of the musculoskeletal system is harnessed to provide lifelong, living solution to a deformity or defect of bone or joint. This means that the patient's own tissue is used to correct, lengthen, or change position of the limb, to improve the child's functioning in life. Prosthesis are not used in Limb reconstructive surgery.

In most cases this is achieved with the use of external devices fixed to the underlying bone by screws and wires. By this method the limb can be lengthened and/or straightened, joint deformity corrected and bone that is missing, infected or abnormally formed be replaced.

Common conditions treated include:

• Talipes (club foot)
• Leg length differences
• Deformity of limbs - arm, leg or digits
• Contracture of knee eg in Spina Bifida