Exploring the Fitbone Method for Limb Lengthening

In the realm of limb lengthening surgery, advancements continue to redefine the landscape, offering patients innovative solutions with improved comfort and safety. Among these innovations stands the Fitbone system, a fully-implantable motorised approach that has earned recognition for its precision, comfort, and strong biological safety profile.

A Leap Forward in Limb Lengthening

Originally developed in Germany and launched in 1997, the Fitbone intramedullary lengthening system has become a global success. Unlike traditional methods that rely on external fixators, the Fitbone system uses a motorised intramedullary nail and an external control set for gradual bone lengthening.

Understanding the Fitbone Method

At the heart of the Fitbone system are two primary components: the External Control Set and the Intramedullary Lengthening Nail (with subcutaneous receiver).

External Control Set:

A handheld electronic unit transmits energy through the skin to the implanted receiver, which activates the motor inside the nail. This enables precise, surgeon-programmed lengthening increments, typically around 1 mm per day.

Intramedullary Nail & Receiver:

The biocompatible motorised nail is placed inside the bone canal and connected via a cable to a small receiver positioned beneath the skin. No external frames or pins are required, reducing the risk of pin-tract infections and visible hardware.

The Two-Step Process

Initial Surgery:

During the first surgery, the nail and receiver are implanted into the bone. After a short latency period, the lengthening begins under the control of the external device, following the surgeon’s protocol.

Nail Removal Surgery:

Once the desired length is achieved and the bone has consolidated sufficiently, patients may opt to have the internal nail removed in a secondary and relatively simple procedure.

Fully Internal & Comfortable:

The Fitbone method provides a fully internal solution without external frames, which supports a more comfortable patient journey, fewer scars, and improved aesthetics.

Precise, Programmable Lengthening:

The motorised nail offers highly controlled distraction and the possibility of corrections in alignment (axial/torsional) alongside lengthening, thanks to specialist instrumentation and planning tools.

Higher Cost:

Compared to more traditional methods like the Lengthening Over Nail (LON) method, Fitbone generally involves higher implant and surgical costs due to its advanced technology.

Conclusion

The Fitbone system represents a major advancement in limb lengthening surgery, offering patients a precise, fully internal, and biologically safe method to achieve their height goals. While it involves specific considerations such as cost and adherence to protocol, its ability to enhance comfort, reduce external complications, and deliver controlled, predictable lengthening make it a valuable option in modern orthopaedic practice.

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