Ilizarov clinic

Dr. Ken Brown heads up the Ilizarov limb lengthening program at Children's. The Iilizarov apparatus is used primarily for patients who have a limb length discrepancy. A limb length discrepancy is when one limb (usually the leg) is shorter or longer than the other. It is considered a problem if the leg length difference is more than 2 cm. (about1 in.). Leg length discrepancies are caused by changes in bone growth. These changes may be caused by fractures, infections, tumors or for reasons unknown (idiopathic).

The Ilizarov is made up of two metal rings that encircle the leg or arm, wires that secure the rings to the bone, and metal rods that extend between the rings. These rods can be lengthened, like a telescope. An operation is required to apply the Ilizarov frame. A small cut is made in the limb between the rings. Through this opening, the outer hard layer of bone is cut and the soft inner marrow is left undamaged. The lengthening usually starts one week after the frame is applied. The typical rate is 1 mm per day. The apparatus pulls the two sections of bone apart creating a gap. This is called distraction. New bone cells form in the gap and harden throughout the lengthening. An x-ray is taken at each clinic visit. This allows the orthopedic surgeon to measure the length of the distraction and look for new bone growth.

On average, six patients are undergoing a limb lengthening in given time and are seen weekly or bi-weekly for follow-up assessments.

For more information contact kbrown@interchange.ubc.ca

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