A new method of limb lengthening is presented which can be used after closure of the epiphyses. It consists of interruption of the cortex by a closed technique at the metaphyseal level through a 1 cm incision. Fixation and progressive distraction are achieved by means of a special encircling external fixation device using crossed wires under tension. The rationale and technique are described and the results are reported and illustrated. These show that the method is more reliable, quicker and has fewer complications than the standard techniques.