The psychological and social functioning of 14 children and 12 adolescents after Ilizarov leg lengthening.

We studied the psychological and social impact of the Ilizarov leg lengthening procedure in 26 patients (aged 6-17 years), who had completed the treatment at least 2 months previously. Measurements of depression and anxiety were performed preoperatively and at follow-up. Questions about functioning at school, daily life activities and treatment-related experiences were answered by the patient and his/her parents. The school or work results showed no significant decline during the lengthening procedure. Serious sleeping problems occurred during the procedure. There was no subjective improvement in physical skill after the procedure and almost one-fourth of the children still had complaints about their leg. We conclude that the Ilizarov procedure caused no serious psychological disturbances.