Distraction Osteogenesis for Lengthening of the Tibia in Patients Who Have Limb-Length Discrepancy or Short Stature*

Abstract

Although the three operative protocols resulted in similar healing indices, the rates of complications differed significantly among the groups (p<0.0001). Group C (the Garches device) had the lowest rate of complications (7 percent). It is important to be aware of potential complications as well as the need for additional procedures in order to avoid predictable problems. These procedures include percutaneous tenotomy of the Achilles tendon and fixation of the distal segment of the fibula to the tibia to maintain the integrity of the tibiotalar articulation and the alignment of the foot.