Patient Case History: Donald

Arm (Humerus) Lengthening

Pre-Op

Patient Surgeon: S. Robert Rozbruch
Donald had an infection in his left shoulder as a child. This caused damage to his growth plate and his upper arm growth was stunted. He was referred to us with a short upper arm. He was unhappy with his inability to reach and with his appearance.

Donald, Pre-Op thumbnail of an x-ray, Limb Lengthening, damaged growth plate, stunted upper arm growth, short arm

Post-Op

We performed an osteotomy (bone cut) of the humerus, applied an EBI frame, and gradually lengthened the bone 8.5 centimeters (3.5 inches) using the Ilizarov method. While in the frame, he was encouraged to exercise and remain active as the healing progressed.

Donald, Post-Op thumbnail image, Limb Lengthening, osteotomy, humerus, EBI frame, Ilizarov method

Follow-Up

After frame removal, Donald has excellent function and improved symmetry.

Donald, Follow up thumbnail image, Limb Lengthening, lengthened humerus, arm lengthening

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