FAQs
- How does bone lengthen ?
- When is my frame coming off ?
- Can the get the fixator wet ?
- Can I walk with a fixator on ?
- Does it hurt ?
- Can I go back to school ?
- How do you do “turns” ?
- When do I call the doctor ?
- How many Xrays will be needed ?
- How do I view the PDF brochures ?
How does bone lengthen ?
When is my frame coming off ?
- The length of time that the frame is on depends upon many different factors. This includes whether it is a holding frame or a correction frame; the amount of correction needed; the rate at which your body regenerates bone; and if there are any complications. The general rule of thumb for correction is that the frame needs to be on for one month for every cm gained. The other rule of thumb for frames, is that ‘it is better to stay on a week longer than it needs to, than come off a day early and run the risk of fractures’.
Can the get the fixator wet ?
- In the initial stages of treatment, we advise that the frame and dressings do not get wet. This means showering with a plastic bag covering the leg. After the frame has been on for a while, we will assess each case individually, and advise you on whether you are able to shower or go swimming.
Can I walk with a fixator on ?
- If able, walking with the fixator on is encouraged as weight bearing assists with bone healing. The physiotherapist will work very closely with the child to teach mobilisation skills.
Does it hurt ?
- We would be lying if we said that it didn’t hurt, BUT, after the initial surgical pain (which is controlled in hospital with intravenous narcotics), the pain will subside. Most children go home on some oral analgesic medication, which will gradually be decreased at home. We have found that most children do not need any pain medications after a few weeks.
Can I go back to school ?
YES! The Limb Reconstruction Team advocates for our patients to get back to school as soon as appropriate. A gradual return is commenced after discussion with hospital, family and school.
How do you do “turns” ?
- Download the "Lengthening your frame brochure" (PDF 536 KB)
When do I call the doctor ?
- If there is an increase in pain of the affected limb.
- If there is any redness, swelling or tenderness around any of the pin sites.
- If there is any discharge from the pin sites.
- If there is a fever that can’t be explained by a cold, ear infection or other illness.
- If there are problems with the fixator, such as broken wires or pressure areas on the skin under the rings.
How many Xrays will be needed ?
Radiographic images will be required pre-operatively, before discharge from hospital, and then every 2 weeks if the frame is a correction frame, and every 4 weeks if it is a holding frame. (Please note that when the correction has finished and the frame is locked down, the correction frame becomes a holding frame.) It is important to remember to ask the radiographers to protect your other organs (such as testes and ovaries) with shields.
