Can Limb Lengthening Help Teens Grow 5cm Taller at 13 Years Old Safely

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Hi everyone, I'm 13 and I'm really self-conscious about my height. I was wondering if limb lengthening can help me grow 5cm taller safely? I've heard it's a pretty invasive procedure and I want to make sure I understand the risks.

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I had the procedure done when I was 16 and it was a game-changer for me. The first few weeks were tough, the pain was manageable but the rehab was intense. I had to learn how to walk again and it took about 6 months to fully recover. The total cost was around $30,000, but for me, it was worth it.

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I'm not sure it's a good idea to be messing with your bones like that, especially at 13. What if something goes wrong? I've read about people having complications like non-union or infection. Is it really worth the risk?

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Distraction Osteogenesis: A Review of the Literature

From my extensive research, it appears that distraction osteogenesis is a viable option for limb lengthening. The process involves osteotomy, where the bone is cut and gradually distracted using an external fixator or intramedullary nail. This leads to callus formation and eventually, consolidation of the new bone. However, it's crucial to understand the physiological mechanisms behind this process and the potential complications that can arise, such as pin-site infection or joint stiffness.

• The Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) is a commonly used external fixator for limb lengthening.
• The Precice and Stryde nails are examples of intramedullary nails used for internal lengthening.
• It's essential to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of each method and consider factors such as cost and rehabilitation time.

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I agree with @LimbLengthened, the procedure can be life-changing. But @SkepticalSarah also raises some valid points about the risks. Can someone explain the difference between external and internal lengthening methods?

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Internal vs. External Lengthening: A Comparative Analysis

Internal lengthening methods, such as the Precice or Stryde nails, offer the advantage of fully internal fixation, reducing the risk of pin-site infection. However, they also have their own set of complications, such as motor failure or premature consolidation. External fixators, like the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF), provide more flexibility in terms of multi-planar correction, but may require longer external fixation times and have a higher risk of axial deviation.

• A study by Kojimoto et al. (1988) demonstrated the importance of periosteal integrity in ensuring robust callus formation during distraction osteogenesis.
• Another study by Lin et al. (1996) found that the combination of an intramedullary nail and external fixator (LON) did not adversely affect callus formation.

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I just wanted to say that I think it's great that you're considering all the options and doing your research, @GrowthAspirer. It's a big decision, but with the right information and support, you can make an informed choice that's right for you.