Limb Lengthening Surgery: Week-by-Week Guide Full Journey
First 5 days in hospital; distraction starts on day 6
(1 mm/day , 0.25 mm at 08:00–13:00–18:00–23:00). From week 1+ ,
physiotherapy (30–45 min , 4–5 times/week ). X-rays every
3–4 weeks .
Updated: 07 September 2025 • Surgeon’s protocol is decisive
Contents Summary
Days 0–5 (Hospital)
Distraction (Detailed)
Physiotherapy
Consolidation
FAQ
Red Flags
Summary
Hospital (0–5 days): Pain/swelling control, safe mobilization, wound/pin-site care.Pain: Epidural catheter removed on postop day 2–3; then oral meds.Distraction: Starts on day 6; 1 mm/day (0.25 mm × 4).Physiotherapy: From week 1+; 30–45 min, 4–5 times/week.X-rays: Every 3–4 weeks.
Days 0–5: Hospital
Pain & Swelling
Epidural provides comfort; removed on day 2–3.
Then paracetamol/NSAIDs ± adjuvants.
Mobilization
Short walks with aid, symmetric steps.
Ankle pumps, breathing exercises, thromboprophylaxis if prescribed.
Wound Care
Daily pin-site care education.
Discharge when oral pain control is sufficient and walking is safe.
Distraction (From Day 6)
Plan: 1 mm/day (0.25 mm × 4); times: 08:00–13:00–18:00–23:00.
Each Session
Before: 5–10 min stretching/exercises.
Distraction: as per device protocol.
After: 15–20 min icing + elevation.
Weekly Goals
Knee extension 0°, flexion ≥110°.
Ankle dorsiflexion ≥5–10°.
Strength and symmetrical gait maintained.
X-rays: Every 3–4 weeks; distraction speed adjusted accordingly.
Physiotherapy
Starts after week 1.
30–45 min, 4–5 times/week.
Home program daily.
Goals: ROM, strengthening, gait symmetry.
Consolidation
After distraction ends, new bone strengthens. Weight-bearing gradually increases. X-rays every
