Evidence on the safety and efficacy of intramedullary distraction for upper limb lengthening is inadequate in quantity and quality. But because this is a rare condition with limited alternative treatments, the procedure can be considered as long as special arrangements for clinical governance, consent, and audit or research are in place. Find out what special arrangements mean on the NICE interventional procedures guidance page.
Further research, which could be registry data, should report details of patient selection, device selection, technique used, procedural outcomes, long-term outcomes including quality of life, the need for repeat interventions or surgery and complication rates.