The prevalence of the complications and their associated factors in humeral lengthening for achondroplasia: retrospective study of 54 cases

J Pediatr Orthop B. 2017 Nov;26(6):519-525. doi: 10.1097/BPB.0000000000000428.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the complications of humeral lengthening and their associated factors. Fifty-four achondroplastic patients were treated by bilateral humeral lengthening. Our original shoulder sling was sufficient to prevent shoulder dislocation. Pre-existing radial head dislocation was observed in 18 patients. Lengthening was accomplished in all cases without a decrease in the elbow function. Seven humeri fractured after the fixator removal. The risk factors for postoperative fracture were a waiting period of less than 5 days, a healing index less than 25, and the concave shape of the callus. There was no radial nerve palsy.

MeSH terms

  • Achondroplasia / surgery*
  • Adolescent
  • Bone Lengthening / adverse effects*
  • Bone Lengthening / methods
  • Child
  • External Fixators
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Humeral Fractures / etiology
  • Humeral Fractures / prevention & control
  • Humerus / surgery*
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Shoulder Dislocation / etiology
  • Shoulder Dislocation / prevention & control
  • Treatment Outcome