Achondroplasia and limb lengthening: Results in a UK cohort and review of the literature

AIMS: We aim to review the results, complications and outcomes of a single surgeon's series of lower limb lengthening in patients with achondroplasia. METHODS: Ten achondroplastic children underwent limb lengthening. The patients, medical records and radiographs were reviewed. RESULTS: The average age at the time of the index operation was 7.8 years. A single surgeon undertook all procedures. The average total length gain was 20.5 cm. The commonest complication was a fractured femur after removal of the frame. CONCLUSION: Although complication rates were high (70%), none were left with any long-term sequelae and all were pleased with the results.