Arnold - Chiari syndrome - a case study. Janek's story.

However, he never stopped believing that one day he would be able to play soccer with his friends. At the Paley European Institute, we helped him make that dream come true!

Treatment with the PRECICE intramedullary nail

In Janek's case, we performed two-stage reconstructive treatment of the lower extremities. To compensate for their length, we performed lengthening of the right femur using the PRECICE intramedullary nail. The boy gained an additional 5 cm in leg length!

Left femur and left lower leg derotation procedure with correction of foot and left ankle joint alignment

Subsequently, we performed derotation of the left femur and left lower leg, along with correction of the alignment of the foot and left ankle joint. This required a multilevel osteotomy (cutting of the bone) of the femur and tibia. After the cut, the bone was set correctly and fused internally with special implants. As a result, Johnny can finally start walking and load his legs properly and safely.

Physiotherapy in the treatment of Arnold - Chiari syndrome

The process of limb lengthening is inseparable from daily physiotherapy. Janek's challenges included muscle strength training, maintaining proper length and flexibility of muscles, tendons and nerves, and gait training, which posed a major psychological challenge for the boy. Janek also performed a number of exercises and activities ordered to be done at home every day, which was designed to maintain the effects developed during physiotherapy.

Results of treatment of Arnold - Chiari syndrome

The boy faces one more surgery. However, already today, thanks to the commitment of Janek, his doctors and therapists, the boy is able to walk on his own and even take his first sports challenges!