Fitbone Technology

St. Luke's Medical Center's Institute of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine showcases the latest technology in limb lengthening and strengthening called "Fitbone Technology". Wittenstein intens GmbH, the manufacturer of Fitbone instruments, in partnership with Munich Hospital, chose St. Luke's as one of five medical institutions in Asia authorized to perform this breakthrough procedure.

Fitbone Technology was originally intended to correct shortened or deformed limb bones caused by injury, disease or other causes like congenital defect. Today, it is the latest technology in limb lengthening and strengthening. Through this technology, an individual can gain up to 180 mm in height in about six months.

Fitbone Technology can be applied to "stretch" both the upper and lower bones of the legs and even the bones of the upper arm, allowing the patient to achieve an increase in height.

Fitbone technology helps patients with limb length inequality and limb deformities (shortened or deformed limb bones caused by injury, disease or congenital) to correct defects that require angular correction and/or lengthening; and those who desire to gain additional height for cosmetic reasons. Patients should at least be 17 years old and in good health.

The Fitbone procedure is much safer to use and simpler to perform compared to the conventional bone extension surgery methods known today. Unlike the external frame that is bulky and seen on the outside, the Fitbone is placed intramedullarily or inside the bone. Fitbone uses a steel implant that gradually lengthens when activated by a wireless control unit. The device is inserted into the hollow of a bone that has been cut crosswise. The device, activated by the remote control unit, increases in length at 1 mm a day. The bone's cut ends grow and fuse eventually.

It takes about two to three hours per limb to complete the operation and a period of three to five days is allowed for pain and swelling to subside. Rehabilitation can start as early as one week from the day of operation since the fixation is stable. When the desired length is reached, it would take about three months more for the bone to gain its normal strength.