Performed by Dr. Venkat Ram Thyalapalli at Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli
Osteogenesis Imperfecta deformity correction with rodding is a surgical procedure to straighten bones that have bent or fractured repeatedly due to brittle bone disease. A metal rod is placed inside the bone to support it, help it grow straighter, and reduce the risk of future fractures. Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli performs this procedure to help children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta achieve better bone alignment and function.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
The child is given general anaesthesia so they are asleep and feel no pain during the procedure.
An incision is made over the affected bone to expose the deformed or fractured area.
The bone is carefully straightened. In some cases, cuts (osteotomies) are made in the bone to realign it properly.
A metal rod is inserted into the hollow centre of the bone to support it and maintain alignment. The rod may be fixed (non-telescoping) or telescoping, which expands as the child grows.
The incision is closed with stitches, and the limb is often placed in a supportive splint or cast.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli reviews imaging and measurements to select the appropriate rod type and plan the correction angles.
Because bones in Osteogenesis Imperfecta are fragile, gentle technique is used throughout to minimise the risk of new fractures during surgery.
The choice between fixed and telescoping rods is based on the child's age, expected growth, and bone anatomy.
After surgery, close monitoring ensures pain is controlled, healing is progressing, and any early complications are identified and managed.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The first few weeks involve pain management, wound care, and keeping the limb protected in a cast or splint. Movement is limited to allow early healing.
Once the bone starts to heal, gentle physiotherapy begins to restore movement and strength. Weight-bearing is introduced gradually based on X-ray findings and clinical progress.
Regular check-ups with X-rays are needed to monitor bone healing, rod position, and growth. Telescoping rods may need revision or replacement as the child grows, and fractures can still occur in other bones.
The procedure aims to correct deformity and allow the bone to grow in better alignment, which may improve function and appearance.
Internal support from the rod may help reduce the number of fractures in the treated bone, though fractures can still occur in untreated bones or under significant force.
Rodding addresses deformity in a specific bone but does not change the underlying condition of Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Bones remain fragile and ongoing care is needed.
Rods can bend, break, migrate, or become too small as the child grows. Further surgery may be needed to replace or adjust the rod.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Medications that increase bone density may be used to reduce fracture frequency. This is often combined with surgical treatment but can be used alone in milder cases or when surgery is too risky.
External supports can protect bones and help minor deformities. This may be suitable for very young children, those with mild deformity, or when surgery carries high risk.
In some cases, especially if deformity is not severe or function is acceptable, active monitoring with exercises to maintain strength and mobility may be chosen instead of surgery.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about osteogenesis imperfecta deformity correction / rodding.
Get a personalised assessment from an experienced specialist. Understand your options, ask your questions, and decide with confidence.
Consult Venkat Ram Thyalapalli for Osteogenesis Imperfecta Deformity Correction / Rodding at any of these 2 centres — pick the one nearest you.
