Precice 2 Method
While technology has been moving on to develop, new innovative limb lengthening techniques come out and give opportunities to individuals who want to get taller in a comfortable and safe way. Precice 2 (NuVasive Specialised Orthopaedics (NSO)) has been one of the latest advanced limb lengthening methods that provides a less intrusive approach. Since its implementation in 2011, it has become the most popular approach among patients in terms of convenience and biological safety.
There are two devices utilized in the Precice 2 method: External Remote Controller (ERC) and Internal Magnetic Fixators (Nails&Rods). An intramedullary nail or rod constructed of titanium alloy is used as internal fixation. By evaluating the X-ray scans, the nail’s size is determined (8.5 mm, 10.7 mm, 12.5 mm) It is surgically implanted into the bone cavity during the procedure. When the motor is turned on by an External Remote Controller (ERC), the device lengthens gradually, which in turn causes the bone to distract gradually.
Advantages of Limb Lengthening Surgery Precice 2 Method
- A less intrusive procedure
- Less painful process compared to external methods (e.g. LON)
- No high-risk infection since the wounds heal quickly
- Less scarring
- Allowing more mobility than the other classical methods (e.g. Ilızarov)
Disadvantages of Limb Lengthening Surgery with Precice 2 Method
- Demanding a high price
- Limited weight-bearing capacity
- Requiring the use of a Wheelchair during the lengthening phase
There are 5 phases in limb lengthening with the LON method, and in each phase, you will see the steps in a timeline;
Pre-operative
Day 1-2:
- Being welcomed by your caretaker at the airport
- Checking in at the hotel and resting
- Meeting and having a face-to-face consultation
- Pre-op medical tests and Taking Orthorentgenogram X-ray
- Physical examination to assess flexibility and nail measurement to ensure the optimum size
- Have a complimentary Istanbul Tour to let your hair down
Intra-operative
Day 3: The Big Day!
Day 4: Follow-up visit by the surgeon and a short-walk
Day 5: Receiving physical therapy
Day 6: Relaxing
Day 7: Receiving physical and demonstration for lengthening
Day 8: Being discharged with a private ambulance
Post-operative (Lengthening Phase)
Day 9: Begining of distraction (1 mm per day for LON and 0,99 mm for Precice 2)
Day 10-90:The duration of the lengthening phase may vary depending on the planned amount of height achievement. In this course of time, the number of physiotherapy sessions is determined considering your general status. This phase is significant to regain mobility and functionality. You will not be allowed to give partial weight bearing for more than 10-20 minutes a day Patients are required to use a wheelchair in the course of the distraction phase because there is a high risk of bending and breaking the nails by giving too much pressure. Necessary medical care and painkillers will be provided throughout the lengthening phase. Follow-up visits will be done at the facility. X-rays are taken on a regular basis as well to ensure that early signs of potential complications can be caught in advance, and preventative measures are taken accordingly.
Pre-Consolidaiton Phase
Day 90-110: Once sufficient bone consolidation appears on the X-ray, the instructions are given to the patients about how much time they should use the walker and then, be on the crutches. (If there is a delay in bone consolidation, the duration to be on the crutches may prolong)
Recovery phase (Bone-healing/Returning to Daily life)
Day 110-475: In this phase, patients are required to send X-rays at regular intervals so that the bone healing progress can be evaluated remotely. After the lengthening phase is over, they are asked to use a walker & crutches for about two months, and then, walk unaided. Doing any heavy physical exercise and sports are strictly not advised until the surgeon gives approval. Apart from these, they can return to their daily routines or work life freely.
*Please note that the information and the duration shared in the timeline are to give an overall insight regarding the limb lengthening process. The process can be completed early or later than it is anticipated depending on the circumstances and amount of elongation planned to be achieved!
