Successful femur lengthening surgery at the Maternity and Children's Hospital in Buraidah
The Maternity and Children’s Hospital in Buraidah recorded a new medical achievement that adds to the record of successes of the Qassim Health Cluster , as the specialized orthopedic surgery team was able to perform a delicate and complex surgical operation to lengthen the femur of a 12-year-old child who was suffering from a congenital shortening of the right lower limb by 4 cm, which was negatively affecting his movement and daily lifestyle.
Details of the treatment plan and the Ilizarov technique
The medical team overseeing the case explained that the surgical decision came after a series of thorough clinical examinations and comprehensive radiological and laboratory studies to ensure the child's safety and readiness for the operation. The treatment plan involved a precise osteotomy followed by the insertion of an Ilizarov using external fixation techniques.
The Ilizarov technique is one of the most prominent global techniques used in orthopedics and reconstructive surgery. Its biological principles are based on the theory of "distraction osteogenesis." This technique allows for bone lengthening and gradual, safe correction of deformities. The ends of the cut bone are separated at a calculated daily rate (usually 1 mm), which stimulates the body to build new bone tissue in the resulting gap, eventually transforming into solid, fully grown bone.
The importance of achievement and the development of healthcare
The importance of this type of operation lies in its timing and its direct impact on the child's future; treating limb shortening at an early age (before puberty is complete) spares the patient serious future complications, such as spinal deformities (scoliosis), chronic back pain, and gait abnormalities, thus ensuring a normal life free from motor disability.
The success of this procedure at the Maternity and Children's Hospital in Buraidah reflects the significant development witnessed by the healthcare sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Qassim region. The Qassim Health Cluster , in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the Health Sector Transformation Program, aims to localize specialized and advanced medical services and reduce the need to refer patients to centers outside the region or the Kingdom by attracting medical talent and providing state-of-the-art technology.
Health status and follow-up
The association confirmed that the operation was a complete success, and the child was discharged from the hospital in stable condition. The patient will undergo a close outpatient follow-up program to monitor the gradual bone lengthening process, in addition to a rehabilitation and physical therapy program to ensure the full restoration of motor function in the affected limb once the target length is reached.
