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Methods & Devices
Compare major techniques and device types in plain language.
Overview
This page outlines common method and device categories in neutral language to support consistent comparison of stated provider information.
Recommended first article
Devices and Methods: External Fixation, Internal Nails, and Combined Approaches
A neutral comparison of limb lengthening fixation methods — external fixation, internal lengthening nails, and combined strategies (LON, LATN) — covering how they differ operationally and what factors surgeons consider when choosing a method. No ordering or recommendations are provided.
Begin with this guideFoundation
Key concepts
- 01Internal, external, and hybrid method categories
- 02Technique naming differences across sources
- 03Device lifecycle and stated maintenance points
- 04How method labels appear in profile fields
Personal context
What changes by person
Use these variables to identify which parts of the topic need individualized clinical discussion.
- Anatomy and prior procedures
- Risk profile and tolerance for trade-offs
- Rehab availability and distance from care
- Cost structure and timeline constraints
Reading
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PRECICE vs. LON: How the Two Most Common Limb Lengthening Methods Compare
A current comparison of fully internal titanium PRECICE IMLL and lengthening over a nail (LON), including fixation, daily care, loading, operations, infection, evidence limits, and recalls.
How Much Can You Lengthen? Safe Limits Per Segment Explained
What is the maximum safe amount of bone lengthening per segment and per session? This article explains the biological, device-based, and clinical limits — based on published orthopedic research.
External Fixator Types: Ilizarov, Taylor Spatial Frame, and Monolateral Systems
How circular, hexapod, and monolateral external fixators differ mechanically and operationally, with limits on comparing accuracy, loading, infection, and current indications.
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The STRYDE Nail and Weight-Bearing Internal Lengthening Devices
What the STRYDE nail was, why it was withdrawn from the market, what corrosion and osteolysis findings led to the recall, and the current state of weight-bearing internal lengthening nail development.
Nail Removal Surgery: What to Expect
When and why the internal nail is removed after limb lengthening, what the procedure involves, recovery time, costs, and whether removal is always necessary.
Questions
Common questions
What is the difference between PRECICE and LON?
PRECICE is a fully internal magnetic nail that is lengthened non-invasively with an external remote controller. LON (Lengthening Over Nail) combines an internal nail with an external fixator during the distraction phase. PRECICE generally offers more comfort, while LON may reduce costs and allow faster weight-bearing in some protocols.
Read the full articleWhat devices are currently used for limb lengthening?
The main categories are motorized internal nails, external fixators, and combined methods such as LON and LATN. Exact device status must be checked by model, lot, country, current instructions, and recall record. STRYDE remains recalled in the United States and should not be treated as a current implant option there.
Read the full articleShould I lengthen the femur or tibia first?
The choice depends on anatomy, cosmetic goals, and risk tolerance. Femur lengthening generally has lower nerve-related complication rates but changes the sitting-to-standing proportion. Tibia lengthening affects visible leg length more directly but carries higher peroneal nerve risk. Some surgeons recommend femur first for cosmetic cases.
Read the full articleWhat are the main steps of a limb lengthening procedure?
The typical sequence includes pre-operative planning and imaging, the osteotomy surgery with device placement, a latency period (5-10 days), the distraction phase (approximately 1 mm/day), and the consolidation phase where new bone hardens. The full timeline varies by method and lengthening amount.
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Informational only. Not medical advice.