Arm lengthening surgery, also known as humerus lengthening, is a medical or cosmetic procedure that can be used to treat short arm syndrome or correct deformities in the arm, such as angulation and rotation. This surgical procedure can also be used to increase the height of the arm and can be performed on patients with Klippel-Feil syndrome, a condition that causes shorter than normal arms.
PRECICE Intramedullary nails are the only devices that can lengthen the arm up to 5cm, but there are no internal lengthening devices currently available specifically for the upper arms due to the smaller diameter of the bones and the low number of arm-lengthening procedures performed each year. The PRECICE nail, which is typically 8.5mmx233mm in size, is the first device small enough to fit inside the humerus bone of skeletally mature patients.
Patients who undergo arm lengthening surgery report feeling more confident in themselves and their abilities because they are no longer limited by their arm length when it comes to daily activities or interacting with others. This surgery can also improve arm function after trauma or injury.
The procedure is done under general anesthesia and there are two approaches to the surgery: the anterior approach and the posterior approach. During the surgery, an intramedullary nail is inserted into the arm bone and then cut so that it can be extended to lengthen the arm. The arm is positioned above the head during the surgery for optimal access.
In summary, arm lengthening surgery can be a beneficial procedure for patients with short arm syndrome, deformities in the arm, or those who wish to increase the height of their arm. While there are limitations to the available internal lengthening devices, the PRECICE nail is a suitable option for many patients seeking this surgery.
