ObjectiveTo review the research progress of intramedullary lengthening nail technology.MethodsThe foreign literature on the development history, types, advantages and disadvantages, indications and contraindications, complications, and effectiveness of intramedullary lengthening nail were reviewed and analyzed.ResultsThe intramedullary lengthening nail system mainly includes mechanical type, electric motor drive type, and magnetic drive type. Compared with traditional external fixation and lengthening technology, the intramedullary lengthening nail technology has certain advantages in incidence of complications, bone healing, postoperative functional rehabilitation, incision aesthetics, convenience, and patient satisfaction. However, there are also shortcomings, such as pain, uncontrollable distraction rate, device failure, etc. In the clinical application of intramedullary lengthening nails for limb lengthening, the indications should be grasped reasonably, and the related complications should be prevented and treated.ConclusionIntramedullary lengthening nails provide a new option for limb lengthening, and the initial effectiveness is good. It is one of the development direction of limb lengthening technology.