Our center specializes in advanced expandable prosthetic technologies designed specifically for growing children who require limb salvage surgery for bone tumors. These innovative implants address the critical challenge of maintaining limb length equality while preserving joint function and allowing normal childhood development.
Non-Invasive Expandable Prostheses
We provide expert care using the latest non-invasive expansion technology:
- Electromagnetic Expansion: Implants that can be lengthened using external electromagnetic fields without surgical intervention, significantly reducing complication rates.
- Permanent Magnet Technology: Prostheses with internal magnets that respond to controlled external magnetic fields for precise incremental lengthening.
- External Control Units: Sophisticated external devices that precisely control the expansion process in outpatient settings.
- Frequent Minimal Lengthening: Ability to perform small, frequent expansions (2-4mm per session) that mimic natural growth patterns.
- Reduced Infection Risk: Elimination of surgical procedures for lengthening significantly decreases the risk of deep infection.
Minimally Invasive Expandable Prostheses
Our comprehensive approach to invasive expansion techniques includes:
- Modular Expansion Mechanisms: Implants designed with internal expansion mechanisms that can be activated through small surgical approaches.
- Minimal Incision Techniques: Small surgical exposures that minimize soft tissue trauma and promote faster recovery.
- Exchangeable Components: Systems that allow for component exchange or addition to accommodate significant growth requirements.
- Mechanical Expansion Systems: Precise mechanical lengthening mechanisms activated during minor surgical procedures.
- Hybrid Approaches: Combination techniques that utilize both non-invasive and minimally invasive methods based on individual patient needs.
Clinical Applications and Indications
We employ expandable megaprosthesis technology for various pediatric orthopaedic oncology scenarios:
- Malignant Bone Tumors: Osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, and other malignancies requiring resection in growing children.
- Benign Aggressive Tumors: Large benign tumors requiring resection that would otherwise cause significant limb length discrepancy.
- Limb Salvage in Skeletally Immature Patients: Children with significant growth remaining who require extensive bone resection.
- Revision Cases: Patients who have exhausted other limb lengthening options or experienced complications with previous reconstructions.
- Complex Joint Reconstruction: Expandable prostheses for knee, hip, and shoulder joints in growing children.
Our Comprehensive Approach
We employ a multidisciplinary team approach including pediatric orthopaedic oncologists, physical therapists, and prosthetists to develop individualized treatment plans. Our services include:
- Preoperative planning with advanced 3D imaging and growth prediction models
- Regular monitoring of limb length and growth plate activity
- Non-invasive or minimally invasive lengthening procedures tailored to growth needs
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs to optimize function post-lengthening
- Long-term follow-up to monitor implant performance and skeletal development
- Psychological support for children and families navigating complex reconstructions
We understand the unique challenges of treating bone tumors in growing children. Our team is committed to providing innovative expandable prosthetic solutions that allow children to maintain limb function and equality while supporting their physical and emotional development through compassionate, family-centered care.
