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

AimsWe aim to review the results, complications and outcomes of a single surgeon's series of lower limb lengthening in patients with achondroplasia.MethodsTen achondroplastic children underwent limb lengthening. The patients, medical records and radiographs were reviewed.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionAlthough complication rates were high (70%), none were left with any long-term sequelae and all were pleased with the results.