Humeral lengthening: Systematic Review and Meta Analysis

Document Type : Original Research Papers

Authors

Orthopedics Surgery Dept., Fac. of Medicine. Benha Univ., Egypt

Abstract

Background: The humerus lengthening was mostly regarded an aesthetic procedure. Recent study
indicates, however, that the objectives of bilateral humeral lengthening in achondroplasia are not just
cosmetic, but also to restore proportions between the upper and lower limbs, extend reach, and enhance
the capacity to perform perineal personal hygiene. This study's objective was to conduct a
comprehensive evaluation and analysis of the outcomes of humeral lengthening. Methods: During this
systematic review and meta-analysis preparation, we adhered to the PRISMA statement criteria and
followed the Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions. Results: We identified eight
studies discussing humeral lengthening including a total number of 158 humeri in 129 patients. The age
range of patients across the studies ranged between 6.5 and 20 years. The male gender was common
and ranging from 33% to 78%. The humeral lengthening was conducted among 158 humeri among
them 34 in the right side. The mean length achieved was 7.7 cm among the included eight145 studies
ranging from 5.1 cm to 9 cm. Pooled analysis of the involved trials showed significant association
between length pre and post humeral lengthening (OR = -6.08; 95% CI: [-6.79, -5.38]; P = <0.00001).
The pooled studies were not heterogenous (I2 = 0%, P < 0.46). Conclusions: The lengthening of the
humerus was regarded mostly as a cosmetic procedure. Using a variety of external fixators and
intramedullary (IM) nails, the humerus was extended by distraction osteogenesis. There is a statistically
significant link between length before and after humeral lengthening, although neither range of motion
nor functional score are affected.

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Benha Journal of Applied Sciences
Volume 8, Issue 3
March 2023
Pages 151-158

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