What is limb Reconstruction?

Limb reconstruction is a specialist branch of orthopaedic surgery that focuses on the restoration of function of a limb (in both the upper and lower limb) that has been damaged, deformed, or is non-functional due to trauma, infection, congenital deformities, tumours, or disease.

This field employs advanced orthopaedic techniques to repair bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and other tissues, often aiming to avoid amputation or significantly improve mobility and function.

There are many techniques employed in Limb Reconstruction including some of the following:

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    Bone healing using synthetic material or free tissue transfer

    Bone healing of partial defects can be supported with the use of biodegradable implantable materials that can act as scaffolds to encourage natural bone regrowth. These carriers can also deliver local antibiotics in the case of infection treatment, if required.

    Bone can also be taken as a graft from one region and moved to another. This technique is called an autograft and can help rebuild areas where part of the bone is missing.

    The close teamwork in OLRIC between orthopaedic and plastic surgeons also allows the use of vascularised bone transfers in selected cases.  This involves transferring bone from one part of the body to manage the bone defect, with microvascular reconstruction of the blood vessels that keep the bone alive, to allow healing of the bone. This can also be done using periosteal grafts, which is the tissue surrounding bone that supports bone healing.

    Bone Lengthening and Deformity Correction

    When limbs are shorter or misshapen, surgical techniques can be used to realign limbs or gradually relengthen them by a process of gradual distraction through a carefully place cut in the bone.

    This technique, known as the Ilizarov method, can restore the alignment and length of damaged bones in the limbs. Through close team working we have developed innovative techniques to accelerate the treatment process and minimise external fixator times.

    Infection Control and Bone Fusion

    Chronic infections or bone non-union (where bones fail to heal together) can be addressed with surgery to remove the damaged infected bone, along with insertion of local antibiotic carriers, and the use of specialist skeletal stabilisation.

    At OLRIC we have developed several innovative techniques to allow bone formation and healing with a focus on early functional restoration and minimising treatment times.

    Soft Tissue Reconstruction

    This includes repairing or replacing muscles, tendons, and skin to restore appearance, movement, and function, as well as soft tissue releases to manage joint stiffness, joint contractures or compressed peripheral nerves.

    Joint Replacements and Stabilization

    Artificial joints or prostheses might be implanted to replace damaged joints, especially in cases of arthritis or trauma.

    A variety of different techniques are used to achieve bone healing.

    These include the use of external fixators (metal frames outside the limb that hold bones in place), internal rods or plates, and minimally invasive methods like guided bone regeneration or distraction osteogenesis (gradual pulling apart of bone segments to stimulate new growth).  Each case is unique, and treatment is tailored specifically for each individual.  We aim to place each patient at the centre of decision-making.

    The Goals of Limb Reconstruction

    We aim to find solutions to address complex limb deformity with the primary goals to:

    • Restore functionality and mobility.
    • Reduce or eliminate pain.
    • Preserve the limb and avoid amputation.
    • Improve the appearance and alignment of the limb.

    Contact Us

    If you’re concerned about symptoms or need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact the Oxford Limb Reconstruction and Infection Clinic. We’re here to help you understand your condition and explore the best treatment options.