What to Expect
T'his clinic is coordinated and attended by orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and the limb reconstruction nurse. A detailed history is taken, and an examination is performed. Patients should wear clothes they are able to be examined in – ‘bike shorts’ or swimmers under normal clothes often is helpful.
You may require more than one appointment, prior to a decision about surgery.
Investigations
Sometimes additional investigations are required, these are sometimes performed ‘on the day’ and sometimes require a later booking.
Investigations may include:
X-Rays - are used to identify deformity and look closely at bones.
EOS Imaging – A special type of x-ray that uses a lower dose of radiation and allows for calculation of leg length and further specialized angles.
Bone Age X-Rays – an x-ray of the hand which allows for calculation of future bone growth.
CT Scan - allows for 3-dimensional images of bones and also allow measurement of the rotation of bones.
MRI Scan – an advanced imaging technique will examines ligaments, joints, and tendons.
3D Gait Analysis - a more detailed analysis of the way a patient walk may be required to determine the best plan for reconstructive surgery.
Decision Making
Once all information has been gathered and analysed, the LR team will meet with patients and families to discuss treatment options. The LR team may highlight ‘ideal’ options, however the final decision rests with the patient and their family. Open discussion about the treatment amongst family is encouraged, as it empowers the child or adolescent to be an active participant in their own care. This treatment plan may include surgery soon, surgery in the future, or no surgery at all.
The correction of a deformity may be a quick process (all occurring within the surgery itself) or a gradual one (occurring over time). The specific techniques for gradual correction of a deformity – via the use of an external fixator, or a motorized nail – are discussed in the "Specific Interventions" section of this website.
Go to the next section: Surgery.
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