Definition
The non-bony structures surrounding bones, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, and skin. During limb lengthening, soft tissues are progressively stretched as the bone is distracted, which can lead to pain, stiffness, or contracture if they cannot keep pace with bone separation.
Sources
- Stature Lengthening Complications — Paley Orthopedic & Spine InstituteOfficial public source
Peroneal nerve most common nerve at risk. Rate control is most important factor. Motor symptoms require decompression ASAP. Premature consolidation recognized by inability to distract.
- Limb Lengthening Surgery: Procedure, Process & Recovery — Cleveland ClinicOfficial public source
When to call: numbness/tingling, blood/pus drainage, chest pain/shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, fever.
- Limb lengthening and reconstruction: Possible complications — AboutKidsHealth / SickKidsOfficial public source
Contact team if fever >38.5°C, pain/warmth/swelling at pin site, trouble moving or feeling limb. DVT <1%. Compartment syndrome requires urgent fasciotomy. CRPS rare but possible.
Informational only. Not medical advice.