Teenager's elbow rebuilds shoulder

Last Modified: 29 Aug 2008
Source: PA News

A teenage cancer patient has successfully undergone pioneering surgery to rebuild his shoulder using his elbow.

Tom Lemm, 15, is thought to be the first person in Britain to undergo the seven-hour procedure, which took place at Leeds General Infirmary.

The teenager, from Pontefract, had his left arm amputated because of a tumour at the top of it. Medics created a new shoulder out of tissue and muscle from his lost elbow, which was unaffected by the tumour.

At the same time the surgical team, led by Professor Simon Kay, inserted a metal support plate in Tom's collar bone which means he will be able to wear a false arm.

A spokesman for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said: "We are delighted Tom is making a good recovery and that he is pleased with the outcome of the specialised surgery undertaken by the team here at Leeds General Infirmary.

"We wish him well and look forward to seeing how he is progressing on his next visit."

The teenager, who has battled with cancer for three years, told the Sun: "I was very upset at losing my arm but then the prof told me what he planned to do.

"I hope the fact it has worked for me gives others hope."

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