Limb reconstruction

You are here:

Limb reconstruction is a specialised branch of orthopaedic surgery that deals with complications after injury, as well as correcting limb deformities that may have been present from birth. Skilled orthopaedic surgeons uses specialised limb lengthening and reconstruction techniques to length and straighten deformed sections of bone so their patients can regain use of the affected limb, wherever possible, and enjoy an improved quality of life.

man walking on crutches

What conditions require limb reconstructions?

Limb reconstruction surgery is used to reconstruct a damaged bone or joint using an external fixator or frame. Screws and wires are used to attach an external fixator to the affected bone. By adjusting the frame, the orthopaedic surgeon is able to straighten and/or lengthen the limb or correct the deformed joint. Some bones (such as those that are infected, missing or not properly formed) may need to be replaced. Many patients requiring limb reconstruction may have been diagnosed with osteomyelitis (infected bone), which may require complex treatment involving a number of different stages.

Private limb reconstructions at Harley Street Specialist Hospital

Harley Street Specialist Hospital is a leading team of world-renowned orthopaedic surgeons who specialise in complex limb reconstruction techniques. We use the most advanced technologies and surgical techniques to enable our patients to regain use of the damaged or abnormally-formed bone or joints. We offer lower limb deformity correction which is often carried out at the same time as limb lengthening surgery. Deformities of the lower limb may develop before birth or during early childhood or may be caused by an injury.

Limb lengthening is a two-stage surgical procedure that corrects the problems associated with having legs of different lengths, including pain and mobility problems. The first stage is distraction, which is when the bone and soft tissue are cut and slowly pulled apart to encourage new growth. Bones typically grow at around a millimetre a day. The second stage is consolidation, which is when the correct bone length has been achieved. The new bone is given time to harden and the tissues time to heal. Once the bone hardens you can begin to use the limb.

Our surgeons specialise in treating a range of conditions including:

  • Club foot – this is a congenital deformity that causes a child’s foot to twist inwards at the ankle.
  • Flat foot or fallen arches – this is where the natural arch of the foot either fails to develop or collapses, which can cause pain and stiffness.
  • High arches – if the foot arch is abnormally pronounced it can cause pain in the ball and heel of the foot.
  • Tarsal coalition – this is where two or more of the tarsal bones (the seven irregularly-shaped bones in foot, in the ankle area) become fused.
  • Bowed legs – this is an abnormal outward curve which can develop in one or both legs.
  • Hemihypertrophy – this is a condition that causes the sides of the body to grow at different rates.
  • Neurofibromatosis – this is a rare condition that causes one leg to overgrow and may also cause curvature of the spine and skin conditions.
  • Overgrowth of bone following a fracture.

Why choose Harley Street Specialist Hospital?

At Harley Street Specialist Hospital, you can expect:

  • Our team of expert limb reconstruction surgeons to offer rapid assessment and the latest treatments in comfortable central London surroundings, as well as video consultations from the comfort of your own home.
  • Holistic care, where you are an equal partner in the creation of your individualised treatment plan.
  • State of the art diagnostic imaging – you don’t need to go elsewhere as we have in house X-ray, ultrasound and image intensifiers.
  • Day-case and outpatient investigations and surgical procedures in a modern clinical setting.
  • No waiting lists and your treatment can take place at a convenient time for you.

We welcome patients with private medical insurance or those wishing to pay for their own treatment.

Our limb Reconstruction consultants