[The value of methods of bone regeneration evaluation in limb lengthening by the Wagner, Ilizarov methods and by physeal distraction].

Limb lengthening is a long-lasting process, and during new bone formation different complications may occur. Due to this, early diagnosis of disturbances of new bone formation leading to such complications is of importance. The goal of this study is to analyze already used methods of regenerate evaluation. Material consists of retrospective data of 237 patients, who underwent limb lengthening between 1983 and 2002 by one of three methods: Wagner method, Ilizarow method and physeal distraction. During femoral lengthening by Wagner method appropriate shape of regenerate according to Hamanishi was observed in 9 cases (29.0%), and during tibia lengthening--only in 1 case (6.7%). During femoral lengthening by physeal distraction appropriate shape of regenerate (A or B according to Hamanishi) was observed in 24 cases (77.4%), and during tibia lengthening--in 11 cases (78.6%). During femoral lengthening by Ilizarow method appropriate shape of regenerate was observed in 51 cases (72.9%), and during tibia lengthening--in 46 cases (66.7%). Only in Wagner method a correlation between abnormal regenerate shape and bone consolidation complications was noted. Methods of evaluation of bone regeneration during distraction osteogenesis give only descriptive assessment. So far parameters applied for evaluation of distraction osteogenesis in Ilizarow method and physeal distraction do not allow for detailed assessment of bone regeneration process.