Limb Deformity Correction

What is a limb deformity?

A limb deformity is an arm or leg abnormality. Some limb deformities are present at birth, and others happen because of trauma, infection, or disease. 

At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic, Dr. Guan specializes in lower limb deformities affecting the leg and, by extension, the ankle and foot. He also specializes in clubfoot deformity correction. 

What is limb deformity correction?

Limb deformity correction is a procedure that restores a deformed leg to allow it to function normally. This type of correction can be either nonsurgical or surgical based on the deformity and your specific needs. 

When might I need lower limb deformity correction?

There are a number of different lower limb deformities that could require correction. Some examples include:

• Limb length discrepancy — one leg longer than the other
• Legs bow outward
• Knees bow inward
• Toes point inward 
• Toes point outward
• Bone moves in an abnormal way after a leg fracture
• Bone doesn't heal properly after leg surgery

In some cases, lower limb deformities occur in pairs. For example, if you have an inward-twisting lower leg, you're more prone to limb length discrepancy. 

How does limb deformity correction work?

Every person is unique, and limb deformity affects each person in a different way. Because of that, no two limb deformity correction procedures are exactly alike. At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic, Dr. Guan designs individualized treatment plans. 

In some cases, limb deformity may respond to corrective braces or other nonsurgical treatment methods. The choice between nonsurgical and surgical treatments may depend, in part, on the age and health of the patient. 

Dr. Guan may recommend deformity correction surgery if it's the most effective way to reposition your leg bones and normalize your movement patterns. 

In limb deformity correction surgery, Dr. Guan typically has to cut and reposition the main bone in your lower leg. He also commonly uses external fixation devices, which hold your bone in place as it heals in the new position. 

Dr. Guan has extensive specialized knowledge in the area of lower limb deformity correction, which makes him the very best surgeon to trust for this complex procedure. Call Bay Area Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic, or click on the online appointment maker to arrange your consultation with Dr. Guan.