Gradual femoral lengthening using Wagner technique

Eight patients with leg length inequality underwent femoral lengthening using the Wagner technique. Their ages ranged from 15 to 20 years with an average of 17.5 +/- 2.07. Limb length inequality was due poliomyelitis in 75% of cases and femoral shaft fractures in 25% of cases. Femoral length discrepancy varied from 4.5 to 8 cm. with an average of 5.9 cm. The femoral length gained after the operation varied from 4.5 to 7 cm. with an average of 5.8 cm. Full correction was obtained in 3 cases. Three cases had remaining discrepancy from 1 to 2.5 cm. Complications included post-operative wound infection in 12.5% pin tract infection in 25%, partial peroneal nerve palsy in 12.5% and severe angulations in 12.5%. This study revealed that Wagner method of gradual bone lengtherning allows distraction while holding the bony components rigidly fixed. This allows continued hip and knee motion while protecting the neurovascular structure from rapid stretching