Bone Lengthening in Short Stature Using Motorized Nails

Context: Motorized intramedullary nails are the gold standard for bone lengthening, yet few studies have evaluated their impact on quality of life. Aims: This study assessed the influence of motorized intramedullary lower limb lengthening in patients with short stature and their complications. Settings and Design: We retrospectively reviewed 44 bone segments (34 femurs, 10 tibias) performed in 17 patients by a single surgeon (2011-2022). Subjects and Methods: Clinical and radiological data, including final alignment, limb discrepancy, and consolidation index, were analyzed. Patients completed the SF-36 health questionnaire. Complications were classified using Paley’s, modified Clavien–Dindo, and Lascombes’ classifications. Results: Mean age at surgery was 17 years (13–27). Mean lengthening was 67 mm (femur) and 57 mm (tibia) with bone healing indices of 40.5 days/cm and 43 days/cm. No blood transfusion was needed; final alignment and limb length were satisfactory. Paley’s classification showed 22 and eight problems, 18 and three obstacles for femurs and tibias, respectively. According to Clavien–Dindo classification, there were 22 and eight Grade 1, 18, and 3 Grade 3b. According to Lascombes’ classification, there were 22 and eight Grade 1, five and two Grade 2a, 13, and one Grade 2b, five and no Grade 3a. Mean SF-36 global health was 66, physical component 77, social component 76.4, pain component 75.1, and emotional component 62. Ninety-one percent of patients would recommend this treatment to a relative, and 100% would do it again. Conclusions: Motorized intramedullary lengthening nails offer high patient satisfaction and favorable outcomes in selected short stature patients. Complications are generally manageable without reintervention. With proper patient selection, this technique can be recommended.