Having spoke with patients who have utilised both I now thought it would be useful to zero in on these two particular methods as they are more affordable and patients do seem to achieve their goals, particularly with LON Femur.
I will state what I believe best represents the strengths and weaknesses of the two from my what I am aware off, hoping to create a solid reference point. For those who are actively going through or have competed their LL with either please do add and post your thoughts. Every comment helps.
LON Femur+ Full weight bearing during distraction with aid of walker
+ 3/4 months fixator removal patient can "walk" and rehab almost immediately.
+ Consolidate quicker due to weight bearing
+ Price
+ Reliable method
+ Complications seem manageable
- Scar tissue at pin site location; possible reduction of ROM long term
- Hernia at pin sites (seems rare)
- Joint contracture/knee
- Real pain and constant discomfort
- Sleep Issues
- Pin site infections and personal hygiene
- 3 x surgery
Precise 2+ Internal nail safety reverse feature
+ Depending on nail size and patients weight movement with walker possible.
+ Improvements with sleep, hygiene and general comfort throughout distraction
+ Price
+ Conceal/Hide LL
+ 2 x surgery
+ Complications of surgery and infection reduce
- Weight bearing issues potentially wheel chair bound throughout LL entirety
- Increase the risk of alignment matters
- Price higher then LON
- Nail break (seems rare)
- Consolidation ranges approx 6-10months