Developing a device to help children with bone tumors grow their leg length after surgery

Non-invasively extendable megaprosthesis

NIH-funded research Granite Medical, LLC · NIH-10935989

This study is testing a new, easy-to-use device that helps kids and teens who have had surgery for bone tumors to safely grow their leg length at home, making it a better and more affordable option for keeping their legs the same length as they grow.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGranite Medical, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hanover, United States)
Project IDNIH-10935989 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a non-invasive device that allows for the extension of a distal femur replacement in children and adolescents who have undergone surgery for bone tumors. The device is designed to be easily operated by pressing on the skin, enabling gradual lengthening at home, which helps maintain leg length equality as the child grows. Unlike existing solutions, this device aims to reduce complications and costs while being MRI compatible. The goal is to improve the quality of life for young patients by providing a safer and more effective treatment option.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-15 who have undergone surgery for malignant bone tumors in the distal femur.

Not a fit: Patients with bone tumors located in areas other than the distal femur or those who are older than 15 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective method for children with bone tumors to maintain proper leg length as they grow.

How similar studies have performed: While there is one FDA-approved device for similar purposes, this research aims to improve upon existing methods, indicating a novel approach in this area.

Where this research is happening

Hanover, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Bone Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.