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Transverse Bone Transport

Transverse Bone Transport: An Advanced Path to Limb Salvage

Transverse Bone Transport is a sophisticated surgical technique used in limb salvage and preservation, particularly for patients facing severe complications from chronic wounds, non-healing ulcers, or poor circulation (ischemia).

How Transverse Bone Transport Works

The procedure is based on the biological principle of distraction osteogenesis. By slowly moving a piece of bone, the body is forced to regenerate not only new bone but also new vascular networks.

  1. The Corticotomy: A surgeon creates a precise cut in a small section of the bone (usually the tibia).
  2. External Fixation: A specialized frame is attached to the leg using thin wires or pins.
  3. The Transport Phase: Over several weeks, the patient or caregiver turns a small dial on the frame. This moves the bone segment outward by about 1mm per day.
  4. Neovascularization: As the bone moves, it stretches the surrounding tissues, triggering the body to create a "micro-vascular" explosion-essentially building new blood lines to reach the skin and the wound.
  5. The Return Phase: Once the maximum distance is reached, the bone segment is often moved back to its original position, leaving a new, healthy bed of blood vessels behind.

Technology Spotlight: TrueLok Elevate

Our practice utilizes the system, a cutting-edge circular fixator specifically designed for limb preservation.

  • Precision Control: The TrueLok Elevate allows for incredibly fine adjustments, ensuring the bone moves at the exact pace required for optimal vessel growth..
  • Patient-Friendly Adjustments: The system is designed to be easily managed by the patient at home, with clear markings for the daily "turns" required.

Why Choose Transverse Bone Transport?

This procedure is typically reserved for "limb-at-risk" scenarios where other treatments - like skin grafts or standard wound care - have failed.

  • Improved Blood Flow: It addresses the root cause of many chronic wounds by physically growing new pathways for blood to reach the foot.
  • Healing Chronic Ulcers: It has a high success rate in closing "un-healable" diabetic or ischemic ulcers.
  • Avoiding Amputation: By restoring the health of the soft tissue, it can provide a final, successful alternative to major limb loss.

Success Rates and Patient Satisfaction

Clinical data indicates that Transverse Bone Transport can achieve limb salvage rates of over 90% in patients who were otherwise facing amputation. Patients report high satisfaction as the procedure not only saves the limb but often significantly reduces the chronic pain associated with poor circulation.

Schedule an appointment with Dr Sandhu today to discuss your options!

2120 N. MacArthur Blvd
Irving, TX 75061
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