Disappearing Fixator

We expected 3 procedures total during the lengthening: one to put it on, a 2nd to remove the thigh ring and foot plate, and a final one to remove the fixator completely. Instead we are at 5 procedures and counting. Every case is different but our challenge has been loose hardware, hardware irritating the bone and an infection with antibiotic challenges...the process is fluid but so far a success as far as lengthening and consolidating.

I thought it would be interesting to put together pictures from each procedure. The fixator is slowly disappearing...

#1: Fixator put on May 10

#2: Additional strut put across her knee to help straighten her leg - June 19

#3: Much awaited procedure, removal of thigh ring and foot plate since lengthening is done August 2

2nd picture showing the foot plate is gone. The thigh ring and double foot plate weighed 3 pounds.

#4: Removed blue wires because they were irritating the bone - August 30

2nd picture without gauze

#5: Replaced bottom 2 pins because the area was infected and antibiotics weren't working well enough, put a cast on her foot to help straighten it out- October 16
The ring and 6 struts weighed 1.5 pounds.

Hopefully, there is only one more to remove the fixator completely. We are anticipating it to be in November earlier than the expected early December date since her bone is consolidating so well.