Metatarsal lengthening by callus distraction for brachymetatarsia

Description: Rec Rose: Metatarsal Lengthening By Callus Distraction For Brachymetatarsia : Case Report and Review of the Literature. The Internet Journal of Third World Medicine. 2004. Volume 1 Number 2.
Congenital metatarsal shortening (brachymetatarsia) causes minor disability in daily life. However, patients are likely to seek medical care complaining mainly of cosmetic problems when they reach adolescence or adult life. Callus distraction is a unique method for enlongating a long bone. As with any lengthening procedure by callotasis there are complications and these can be avoided or minimized by careful monitoring of progress throughout distraction and consolidation. This is the first reported case of callus distraction for brachymetatarsia from the English speaking Caribbean. The technique and complications are discussed.