How We Can Help

Limb reconstruction can be incredibly beneficial for people with significant injuries, deformities, or conditions that impact their limbs. It aims to restore or improve the limb’s structure, function, and appearance, which can have a huge impact on the quality of life.

We receive referrals when previous treatments have failed or when there is no progress in bone healing.  Sometime this follows a complication following trauma, such as the development of a bone infection, or an unhealed fracture.

We may receive referrals seeking second opinions about management or when other centres have not been able to offer a solution. It is not uncommon that we can offer options to patients who have been told there are no other options aside from limb amputation.

Here are some of the main ways in which the Oxford Limb Reconstruction and Infection Clinic might be able to help you.

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Referrals

If you are insured, your insurer will often require a referral letter from your GP/Consultant.

More information about referrals can be found here or complete our referral form.

    Preserving the Limb and Avoiding Amputation

    In severe cases, limb reconstruction may prevent the need for amputation by restoring essential functionality and appearance. Whilst in some cases amputation might be a viable option, we will explore if there are other options to salvage the limb and maintain function.

    Restoring Mobility and Function

    Limb reconstruction can significantly improve mobility, especially if a limb has been shortened, weakened, or deformed due to an injury or congenital condition. By aligning bones, lengthening shortened limbs, or stabilizing joints, patients may regain their ability to walk, use their arms, or perform daily activities more effectively.

    Correcting Deformities

    Many congenital deformities or trauma-related bone misalignments can be corrected with limb reconstruction, leading to better symmetry, balance, and physical appearance. Techniques like bone-lengthening procedures or corrective surgery help in achieving natural limb alignment and proportions.

    Relieving Pain

    Severe fractures, non-unions (where bones don’t heal), and joint issues can be painful. Limb reconstruction can alleviate this pain by stabilizing or restoring the limb’s anatomy. Correcting deformities or joint issues often relieves stress on muscles and nerves, reducing chronic pain

    Improving Psychological Well-being

    Restoring the appearance and functionality of a limb can boost self-confidence and mental well-being. For many patients, limb reconstruction allows them to regain independence and feel more comfortable with their appearance, which can positively impact their mental health.

    Supporting Long-term Healing

    With methods like bone grafts, implants, and fixators, limb reconstruction can facilitate long-term healing for fractures or infections. It addresses deep-rooted issues that may not heal naturally, reducing the chance of complications later on.

    Expanding Treatment Options

    With advanced reconstruction techniques available today, patients have more options than in the past. Whether dealing with a birth defect, an old injury, or complications from infection, reconstruction offers alternatives to standard treatments that might be less effective or more invasive.

    Overall, our goal at the Oxford Limb Reconstruction and Infection Clinic is to help patients recover physical function, regain independence, reduce pain, and ultimately improve overall quality of life.