Dr. Birkholtz, thank you for returning to the forum! I would certainly appreciate your take on the following questions:
1) Do you believe that a biceps femoris release is required for femoral lengthening? Some Drs perform it as a precautionary measure, some do not - I would love your opinion on this, and specifically, what the tradeoffs are in performing/not performing the release?
2) What do you consider a "safe" lengthening amount for close to full return to athletic activity? Reading through literature, you and other Drs have stated 5 cms, possibly 6 cms. Are there specific medical/physiological reasons as to why this is considered a "safe" length, and/or is there more leeway between a person of, say, 168 cms in stature vs one of 178 cms in stature (leaving aside the why the taller person would seek the procedure)?
The latter seems to be a pretty common question on the board, I'm not sure I've seen it answered in great detail.
Your time here is very much appreciated. I am actually glad you are being bombarded by inquiries
, based on your reputation, you seem to be a terrific surgeon and clinician, and I hope your CLL practice continues to blossom. TIA.