A conceptual view of distraction osteogenesis

How a bone can be lengthened

A controlled separation creates space for new bone. An internal nail is one way to support the divided bone during this process.

Existing boneInternal nailNew tissue

Divide and support

Cutaway of a representative long bone divided at its center, with a metal nail extending inside both segments.

Bone-division site, enlarged

Enlarged view of the narrow surgical division between the existing bone segments, supported by the internal nail.

The nail sits inside the bone.

The bone is surgically divided. An internal lengthening nail supports the segments.

Separate gradually

The same cutaway bone with its two segments farther apart. Blue tissue occupies the new space around the nail.

Bone-division site, enlarged

Enlarged view showing a larger space occupied by blue new tissue between the existing bone segments.

New tissue forms in the gap.

The device moves the segments apart in controlled increments. New bone tissue develops in the space.

Allow bone to consolidate

The lengthened cutaway bone has pale blue tissue bridging the gap, representing gradual mineralization while the internal nail remains.

Bone-division site, enlarged

Enlarged view of pale blue tissue bridging the gap, conceptually representing gradual mineralization rather than measured bone strength.

Hardening continues after lengthening.

Once lengthening stops, the new bone must mineralize and strengthen. Imaging and clinical assessment guide care.

Conceptual cutaway, not a surgical plan. The front surface is removed only to show the inside. These original Blender models are not anatomical measurements or a replica of any implant. Colors do not measure bone strength. This sequence does not specify a schedule, safe weight bearing, or recovery outcome. Internal nails do not eliminate surgery, rehabilitation, or complications.

HSS: height surgery overviewRNOH: lengthening nail guide

Original LLL editorial 3D illustration. English-language visual.