Short Legs
The difference or doubt in the length of a person's two legs is called leg length discrepancy. Generally, there may be a minimal length difference between the legs and this does not pose a functional problem. In a study conducted on soldiers in the United States, differences between 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm were detected in 32% of the soldiers. Differences or shortnesses up to 2 cm cannot be treated medically and do not cause functional problems.
Causes
- Trauma: Traumas that occur during the growth period affect the growth of bones and They may be a reason for brevity. Especially growth plate injuries and malunion are among the causes of shortness.
- Infection: Infections occurring in bones or joints and rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can be considered among the causes.
- Structural Bone Diseases: Neurofibromatosis, Multiple hereditary exostosis, Ollier's disease.
- Idiopathic causes
Diagnosis
Measurement made with a tape measure during physical examination to make a diagnosis. is sufficient. However, for differential diagnosis and technical measurement, special longitudinal radiographs called lower extremity orthoroentgenogram should be taken. Spinal deformities such as scoliosis may lead to secondary short stature. A spine examination should be performed and an x-ray should be taken.
Reason for shortness of the legs
Clinical Complaints
Usually, patients do not have any complaints. However, if the shortness is more than 3-4 cm, it causes walking with a limp. In cases of long-term and serious shortness of breath, calcification and deterioration may occur in the joints due to deterioration of the walking axis.
Treatment
Surgical treatment is not recommended for shortness of up to 2 cm. Special shoes can be used in case of disruption in walking.
Surgical Treatment
Treatment is planned according to the diagnosis, age and amount of shortness. Treatment options;
- Lengthening (The most commonly applied method)
- Shortening
- Epiphysiodesis
In lengthening surgeries, Gradual lengthening is planned for patients with external fixator or ilizarov.
Bone lengtheningPatients must regularly;
- Polyclinic control
- Dressing the roots of the wires
- The exercises recommended by the physician should be applied
Ilizarov Complications
- Infection
- Joint stiffness
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