Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening

Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children began researching limb lengthening more than a decade ago. Initial research was based on the Ilizarov treatment method developed by
Dr. Gavril Ilizarov in Russia. Two of TSRHC’s physicians trained under Dr. Ilizarov for more than 10 years.

TSRHC researchers have modified Ilizarov’s technique to develop the TRUE/LOK™ External Fixation System. In 2003, the hospital formed the Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction (CELLR), directed by Drs. John Birch and Mikhail Samchukov. The center focuses on improving current external circular fixation systems and distraction osteogenesis techniques.

Recognition
The center’s 31 successfully completed research projects place the hospital in a leadership position in the field of limb reconstruction research and development in the United States and worldwide. Results of our accomplishments have been presented at more than 100 national and international meetings and published in 19 papers and more than 100 abstracts.

TRUE/LOK™ External Fixation System
Intensive design and development work at TSRHC led to the development of a new kind of circular frame, the TRUE/LOK™ External Fixation System. It’s one of the most advanced circular fixators in the world. Since 1999, this apparatus has been used to treat patients at TSRHC and other clinics in the United States and abroad. The hospital holds five U.S. and international patents on the TRUE/LOK™ system.

For more information, please call the Research department at (214) 559-7877
or (800) 421-1121, ext. 7877.