Pulsed low-intensity ultrasound: a new salvage procedure for delayed unions and nonunions after leg lengthening in children.

From 1998 to 2001, 112 lengthening procedures with or without deformity correction were performed in 108 children by external fixation with the Ilizarov method. Of these cases, 16.9% did not lead to a solid bone consolidation. Two children were operated the second time, mainly because of the parent's decision. Seventeen delayed unions or nonunions in 13 children were treated with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound. All 17 cases healed within 3 to 12 months without any risk of surgical intervention.