Is the High Healing Index a Complication of Progressive Long Bone Lengthening? Observations from a Cohort of 178 Children Treated with Circular External Fixation for Lower Limb Length Discrepancy

The use of external fixators (EFs) for lower limb lengthening is common treating length discrepancy (LLD) in children. concern at present revolves around extended treatment times, with some suggesting a healing index (HI) > 45 days/cm as major complication. aim this study to assess the factors affecting bone and duration children who undergo LLD using circular EFs. A total 240 procedures on 178 affected by congenital or acquired LLDs (mean age surgery 13.8 ± 2.8 years) were retrospectively evaluated. Complications according Lascombes’ classification analyzed. Mean HI was 57 25 femur 55 24 tibia, an 64% procedures. 189 (79%) reported complications; 85 had sole While reducing frame time crucial, revising classifications necessary avoid overestimation complications.