A technique for calculating limb length inequality and epiphyseodesis timing using the multiplier method and a spreadsheet.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Limb length inequality and epiphyseodesis timing calculations are common in pediatric orthopedics. The multiplier method developed by Paley et al. has significantly simplified the calculation of ultimate limb length. The calculation of limb length inequality has also become very simple for congenital limb length inequalities. However, the equations for limb length inequality from acquired differences and epiphyseodesis timing are not simple, and are prone to arithmetic errors.

Methods

To limit these errors, we have developed a spreadsheet which finds the appropriate multipliers, solves the equations, and computes the predicted limb length inequality and the appropriate age for an epiphyseodesis.

Results

This method of using a spreadsheet and the multiplier cal

SUBMITTER: Sanders JO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2656709 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature