The Sequoia circular fixator for limb lengthening.

With the Sequoia fixator, lengthenings can be achieved based on the clinical facts of the case. The device is a modular apparatus that can perform corrections in several planes, and, if necessary, in a septic environment. In our opinion, a "lengthener surgeon" is one who can foresee problems and take appropriate steps to prevent them.

Articular cartilage atrophy in lower limb amputees.

A retrospective and radiologic survey of the hips of 53 above-knee amputees showed that none of these hips was normal. Osteoporosis was present in all subjects, and cartilage thickness was reduced in 27 cases. This reduced thickness was inversely correlated with stump length, since it occurred in 11 of 13 upper-third amputees, but in none of 10 lower-third amputees.