Jeraldo from Brazil has chosen LON method for bilateral tibial lengthening. He has been researching various surgery methods, doctors, and countries where this surgery is done, for a long period of time. Turkey was the optimal choice for him due to price – quality relationship.
Aimed height increase was around 6-8 cm. He had bought his return tickets beforehand, as it was planned that he will return home after 5 days of hospitalization, which he did.
10 Dec 2019: Patient arrived in Istanbul, Turkey. He was met at the airport, and taken to his hotel room (all included in surgery price)
11 Dec 2019: Istanbul city tour (included). We are aware that most patients are quite nervous and excited before a serious surgery such as limb lengthening. Visiting a completely new country for the first time can be confusing and it may increase the anxiety. Seeing beautiful sights of Istanbul city, trying local delicacies was a great idea, as it helped us to learn more about the patient, become more familiar with his preferences, concerns and needs, have a good time together, and most important, it set the Jeraldo at ease before proceeding to actual surgery.
After city tour, patient was taken to hospital for medical controls and tests, and meeting the surgeon of course.
Test results were all ok and it meant the patient is eligible for surgery. According to what was reported by patient, he has had no serious diseases previously, which may cause problems to limb lengthening procedure.
12 Dec 2019: Surgery day. General anesthesia was applied. Ortovia monolateral rod-like devices were used as external devices, in combination with internal nailing. This device is usually preferred because it is sturdy enough not to bend under patient weight, and also it has a scale on it which allows to visualize the amount of distraction.
Trying to walk with a walker after surgery:
This is the x-ray taken right after surgery (no lengthening has been done yet as you can see):
Here are links to these two images in case somebody cannot view them:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/5RvUXaJTB7A58r2Q6https://photos.app.goo.gl/2XyXbQPriJXPho9G9Following days: Patient had lots of pain according to what he reported. Usually most patients begin walking right on the next day. Patients take a few steps with the help of a walker and with assistance from a nurse or doctor assistant. But Jeraldo began walking on the third or fourth day with difficulty.
17 Dec 2019: All instructions regarding bandage change, cleaning pin sites, and operating the device for distraction were given. Patient began lengthening after 5 days from surgery, which is quite typical. Distraction is done at the rate of 1 mm/day which is also what most patients do.
Patient was taken to airport upon departure, and got back to Brazil successfully. He is continuing distraction. Jeraldo is absolutely careful with cleaning the bandages regularly. Which is one of the main things to do in order to prevent infection.
Main complaints are: swelling in the legs (this happens to nearly all patients after limb lengthening surgery). This can be reduced by staying hydrated + putting a pillow under feet when sitting. Massaging and exercises also help reduce swelling of legs. The other complaint is pain of course. It was recommended to walk as much as possible, and do the exercises to increase leg movement. It reduces pain over time and it becomes easier and easier to walk.
Note: The diary is totally based on real medical data and comments from the patient.
There will be more x-rays and images and updates, as long as patient gives permission. With respect to his privacy, we are covering his face and have changed his name. We are grateful that he has allowed us his images and info on the net, which is quite rare. Most patients simply don’t give authorization for this. But in fact sharing any info about limb lengthening experience is really helpful for patient candidates who seriously think about getting this surgery done. Comments and questions are welcome.
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Topic: Diary: Jeraldo from Brazil - LON limb lengthening in Turkey (Read 3125 times)