Equalisation of Lower Limb Length in Young Adults Using Internal Osteosynthesis: A Case Report of 22 Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Inequality in the length of the lower limbs has an impact on the stability and function of the musculoskeletal system because of the imbalance it causes in our bodies. Several treatment modalities were used by practitioners. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical and functional results of length equalisation of the lower limbs using internal osteosynthesis in the Orthopaedic and Traumatological Surgery Department of the Amirou Boubacar Diallo National Hospital in Niamey. Patients and method: This was a retrospective, prospective study of 22 patients from January 2010 to November 2015, a period of 5 years. The patients concerned were aged at least 18 years and had undergone a femoral shortening osteotomy not exceeding 5 cm on the contralateral healthy limb with a screw plate as the internal osteosynthesis device. Results: The average age of our patients was 24.18 years (18 to 48 years). The etiologies of these length inequalities were: vascular 54.55% (n = 12), post-traumatic 27.27% (n = 6), post-infectious 13.64% (n = 3) and neuromuscular 4.54% (n = 1). The mean length inequality of our patients was 4.93 cm, with extremes ranging from 4 to 8 cm. At an average follow-up of 6.5 months (6 to 24 months), our functional results were satisfactory overall. Discussion: Despite the significant nature of our initial inequalities, which were moderate and severe, we ended up with slight inequalities or even total correction for some of our patients. Conclusion: Inequality in the length of the lower limbs is a handicap that requires appropriate management.