The importance of densitometric testing in the evaluation of regenerated bone during long bone lengthening by the Ilizarov method.

Background. Lengthening a long bone by cutting it surgically and then stretching it a process laden with numerous complications. Among the greatest threats is surely the insufficient support strength of the lengthening limb due to inadequate calcification of the newly generated bone tissue. This leads to fractures, distortion of the axis, or lack of osseous consolidation around the newly formed bone. In order to reduce the number of such complications constant diligent monitoring of the entire process is necessary, from the moment treatment is commenced until the distraction apparatus is removed. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of densitometric testing at various stages in the process of lengthening long bones.
Material and method. The testing involved 17 children, in 20 limbs were lengthened by the Ilizarov method. The average shortening was 4,70 cm (range 3,5-13 cm). the article compares the results of density assessments of regenerated bone using ultrasonographic testing and densitometry.
Conclusions. Densinometric testing constitutes an important supplement to the evaluation of regenerated bone. This is an easy test to perform and repeat, enabling the physician to evaluate the degree of mineralization of the regenerated bone, reach conclusions regarding its consolidation and mechanical strength, and make a decision regarding the removal of the external stabilizer.