Learn about Krukenberg Procedure Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Krukenberg Procedure and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Krukenberg Procedure

The Krukenberg procedure is a specialized reconstructive surgery in pediatric orthopedics designed for children with congenital or traumatic forearm amputations, particularly when a prosthetic device is not suitable or desired. This innovative technique transforms the remaining forearm bones, the radius and ulna, into functional prehensile forceps. By separating these bones and covering them with skin and soft tissue, the surgeon creates two opposable 'limbs' that the child can learn to use for grasping and manipulating objects. This procedure provides sensory feedback through the skin and allows for direct control, offering a significant functional and psychological advantage over a passive prosthesis. It is most commonly considered for bilateral upper limb deficiencies, empowering children to achieve greater independence in daily activities.

Key Highlights

    Creates a functional, sensate grasping tool from the child's own tissue.Provides superior sensory feedback compared to a standard prosthetic limb.Offers a permanent, body-powered solution that grows with the child.Eliminates the need for external harnessing or batteries required by some prosthetics.Can significantly improve independence and quality of life for children with bilateral upper limb loss.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Bilateral congenital upper limb deficiencies (e.g., transverse or longitudinal deficiencies).
  • Bilateral traumatic amputations of the forearm in children.
  • Cases where prosthetic use is impractical, rejected, or has failed.
  • Children in regions with limited access to advanced prosthetic technology and maintenance.
  • The desire for a sensate, body-powered grasping mechanism.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon and a multidisciplinary team (including occupational therapy).
  • Detailed imaging studies (X-rays, possibly MRI) to assess bone structure and soft tissues.
  • Psychological assessment and counseling for the child and family to set realistic expectations.
  • Pre-operative occupational therapy to assess baseline function and begin training concepts.
  • Standard pre-surgical tests (blood work, ECG) and discussion of anesthesia.
  • Fasting as instructed by the surgical team prior to the procedure.

Risks & possible complications

  • Surgical risks: Infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Poor wound healing or skin flap necrosis.
  • Nerve injury leading to loss of sensation or motor function.
  • Insufficient separation or mobility of the created forceps.
  • Bone non-union or delayed healing.
  • Chronic pain or neuroma formation at the surgical site.
  • Unsatisfactory cosmetic appearance.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay for pain management, wound care, and monitoring.
  • The forearm will be immobilized in a cast or splint for several weeks to protect the reconstruction.
  • Intensive and prolonged occupational therapy is crucial, starting with passive motion and progressing to active training of the 'pincer' function.
  • Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing, sensation, and functional progress.
  • Wound care instructions to keep the surgical site clean and dry.
  • Family education and support to assist the child in integrating the new function into daily life.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-12 months for full functional adaptation

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering krukenberg procedure in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for krukenberg procedure compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 250 Thousand – 600 Thousand 5-10 days ~ 6-12 months for full functional adaptation Know More
Turkey TRY 875 Thousand – 2.1 Million 5-10 days ~ 6-12 months for full functional adaptation Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Sarah Iyer is a bright and...

Sarah Iyer is a bright and artistic 8-year-old from Chennai, India, who was born with a congenital below-elbow deficiency of her right arm. She has a small, non-functional hand remnant. Sarah is fiercely independent and loves to draw and paint, but her frustration grew as she struggled with tasks requiring two-handed coordination, like holding paper steady while coloring or carrying her school books. Her parents sought solutions that would preserve her cultural identity while maximizing her function. Dr. Rao, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, recommended the Krukenberg procedure after extensive counseling. He explained it would separate the radius and ulna bones in her forearm to create a two-pronged, sensate 'pincer' that she could control with her own muscles. Sarah was scared but intrigued by the idea of having a 'helper hand' that could feel. The surgery was successful, and after months of dedicated occupational therapy, Sarah learned to use her new pincer grasp. She can now hold her sketchbook, pick up small objects like paintbrushes, and even help her mother with simple chores. Emotionally, she transformed from a child who hid her arm to one who proudly demonstrates her unique abilities, calling her pincer her 'artist's helper.'

Pediatric Orthopedics for Krukenberg Procedure

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform krukenberg procedure and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

OPD-desk synced • Updated