Vascularized bone grafts (VFG) have brought great benefits in the field of reconstruction of the lower extremity. However, complications such as fracture of the grafted fibula and delayed union are sometimes seen. Not only to prevent these complications but also for stability after fracture of the grafted fibula, the Ilizarov external fixator is a very useful option. We report here the clinical results of cases treated by VFG combined with Ilizarov external fixator for reconstruction of the lower extremity. We have performed 53 vascularized fibula transfers to reconstruct lower extremities. An Ilizarov external fixator was used for the initial immobilization in 7 (2 femur, 5 tibia) and for delayed union or fracture of the grafted fibula in 2 cases of congenital pseudoarthrosis of the tibia. All patients achieved good bone reconstruction. All are able to walk without a brace except for one congenital case. The average period to achieve bony fusion was 13 months in femur cases, 6 months in adult tibia cases and 2 months in congenital cases. The average periods to walk without a brace were 14 months, 8 months and 10 months respectively. However, it took 9 months and 28 months to achieve bony union in the cases with delayed union or fracture of the grafted fibula. In the reconstruction of the lower extremities using VFG, the determining factor in method selection is whether sufficient mechanical support is available. An Ilizarov external fixator for immobilization permits the patient to walk as soon as possible. Dynamization from this semi-rigid external fixator causes bone hypertrophy and improved incorporation of the graft

Our purpose was to evaluate the use of indirect and closed reduction with Ilizarov external fixator in intraarticular calcaneal fractures. In a period of 3 years, 16 patients with 18 intraarticular fractures of calcaneus (eleven type III and seven type IV according to Sanders classification) were treated with the Ilizarov fixator. Twelve patients were male and four female. The average age was 42 years (range 25 – 63 years). Three fractures were open. Fractures were evaluated by preoperative radiographs and CT scans. Restoration of the calcaneal bone anatomy was obtained by closed means using minimally invasive reduction technique by Ilizarov fixator. Arthrodiatasis and ligamento-taxis, and closed reduction of the subtalar joint were performed in 14 cases. In 4 cases the depressed posterior calcaneal facet was elevated by small lateral incision and stabilized in frame by wires. Postoperatively, partial, early weight bearing was encouraged in all patients. The mean follow-up period was 1,5 years (range 1 – 3 years). The AOFAS Ankle – Hindfoot Score, and physical examination were used in functional evaluation. The average score was 79,8 (range 72 – 90). Six patients had limited degenerative radiological findings of osteoarthrosis about the subtalar joint and three of them had painful subtalar movement. One of the patients complained of heel pad pain. Nine (6.25%) grade II pin tract infections were detected from a total of 144 wires. No secondary reconstructive procedures, including osteotomies, subtalar fusions, or amputations, have been done. Indirect closed reduction of calcaneal bone anatomy and arthrodiatasis of subtalar joint with Ilizarov external fixator is a viable surgical alternative for intraarticular calcaneal fractures

Purpose: We assess the results of the surgical treatment of intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus using the Ilizarov external fixator. Materials and Methods: During the period of January 2004 to June 2009 we treated 72 intra-articular calcaneus fractures in 68 patients, 51 male and 17 female with a mean age of 34 (range 18–56). The mean follow –up period was 2 years and 10 months (range 3 months to 4 years). All patients received preoperative CT-scan to facilitate classification and pre-operative planning. Of the 72 fractures, 37 (51.4%) were Sanders type II, 30 (41.6%) were type III and 5 (7%) were type IV. The Ilizarov fixator used consisted of 2 rings positioned above the ankle joint and a foot plate. 1.5 and 1.8 mm wires were used, as well as 1.8 mm wires with an olive for the reduction of displaced fragments. Under image intensification and distraction the fracture was reduced and the articular surface was restored as close as possible. Results: The clinical outcome was excellent in 29 patients (40.4%), good in 32 (44.4%), moderate in 7 (9.7%) and poor in 4 (5.5%). As far as the complications are concerned, we had 17 cases of pin track infection treated with the removal of the pins, ankle joint stiffness in 12 patients treated with physiotherapy, 2 patients developed reflex sympathetic algodystrophy, 2 malunion, 8 developed post-traumatic osteoarthritis and 1 of them underwent subtalar arthrodesis. Conclusion: The use of the Ilizarov external fixator for the treatment of intra-articular calcanear fractures has proved itself to be an alternative method to O.R.I.F with similarly good results. Given the fact that the learning curve is relatively steep, it has proven, from our experience, to be a safe and valuable tool for the treatment of these challenging fractures

Background: The Ilizarov external fixator has theoretical advantages over conventional revision surgery for the treatment of recurrent clubfoot deformity where scarred tissue planes, abnormal anatomy and impairment of local blood supply are common. Objective: To assess the outcome of treatment of recurrent club-foot deformity using this device. Patients/Methods: The study evaluated Ilizarov external fixator correction of 40 feet in 31 patients. Deformity was idiopathic in 29 patients, associated with constriction bands in 6 patients and was syndromic or associated with a defined neuromuscular disorder in 6 patients. Patients were reviewed clinically and completed questionnaires documenting pain, function and satisfaction before and after treatment at a mean follow-up of 44 months (range 14–131). All patient’s notes and radiographs were examined. Results: Pain and function scores after treatment improved in 67% and 72% of cases respectively. A subjective increase in stiffness was noted in 46%. Patient satisfaction with outcome was 61%, correlating with improved pain and function scores. Pain and function scores were not significantly different in stiff versus non-stiff feet. The overall recurrence rate was 44%, and was highest in the idiopathic group (59%) compared with the constriction band group (17%) and the neuromuscular/syndromic group (0%). Feet with recurrent deformity had been treated with the Ilizarov fixator at a younger mean age (7.8 years) than those feet which did not recur (mean age 12.6 years). 71% of recurrences experienced significant pain post treatment, compared with only 36% of those feet where deformity did not recur. Functional ability was, however, similar in the two groups. Further surgical treatment has been necessary in 6 patients, including 4 further Ilizarov frames. Complications included almost universal minor pin-site infections, flexion contractures of the toes in 5 feet and skin ulceration in 2 feet, 1 requiring a muscle flap. Conclusions: Treatment of relapsed clubfoot with the Ilizarov fixator can improve the appearance of the foot, correlating with improvement in pain, function and patient satisfaction. This must be balanced however against a high recurrence rate, particularly in young idiopathic feet, an increase in stiffness of the ankle, which has implications for future surgery, and the risk of complications inherent in the technique

Purpose: We report our experience with ankle arthrodesis using Ilizarov External fixator in 18 patients with extensive damage of the ankle joint, mainly with post traumatic osteoarthrosis, during the last 7 years. Materials and Methods: The mean age of the patients was 36 years (range 21–54 years). 14 Pts had posttraumatic arthrosis following complicated intraarticular fractures, 3 Pts had extensive osteochondritis dissecance and 1 had failure of union after RAF arthrodesis of ankle. No cases of osteomyelitis of ankle were included in this seria. All procedures were done with open arthrotomy, 6 through lateral approach and 12 through anterior approach. Bone grafting was used in 3 cases due to extensive damage of talar bone. Temporary fixation by Steinman pin was done in all cases after open alignment of ankle joint, and then Ilizarov external fixator was applied, followed by removal of the temporary fixation. Full weight bearing was allowed from the 3. rd. or 4th postoperative day. Time in fixator ranged from 6 to 14 weeks (average 9,5 weeks). Results: Solid arthrodesis was achieved in all cases. 15 patients were free of pain, 2 patients continued to complain of pain due to degenerative changes in subtalar joint which presented before surgery. 1 patient developed RSD and was treated successfully by analgesics and physiotherapy. 5 cases of superficial pin tract infection were observed and treated with antibiotics. There were no cases of deep wound infection in this series. Conclusions: This method has been proven useful for primary arthrodesis of ankle joint, mainly for complicated cases after multiple surgeries, or in patients with advanced post-taumatic changes

Introduction The purpose of this study was to compare the time to union following acute shortening and subsequent lengthening versus Bone Transport using the Ilizarov external fixator. Methods Eighteen patients with tibial non-unions (age range 26 to 63 years) were recruited between March 1995 and September 2001. Three subgroups of six patients each, were formed. Group 1 underwent Acute Shortening and subsequent Lengthening, whereas Group 2 underwent Bone Transport. Group 3 patients had defects < 1 cms but were still high energy injuries, therefore underwent application of a frame. This group was used as a comparison group. A proximal corticotomy was used for distraction osteogenesis. Bone grafting at the fracture or regenerate site was used if required to aid healing. All patients were followed-up to union. All three groups were similar for age, pre-injury health status including cigarette smoking. Ten infected non-unions were present. Most patients had at least two conventional operative interventions prior to referral to us for Ilizarov surgery. The mean bone resection in the Acute Shortening group (Group 1) was 4.6 cms and in the Bone Transport group (Group 2) was 5.9 cms. Patients in Group 2 had more procedures done before union was achieved. This included adjustment of frame/ reinsertion of wires to align transport segment for optimal docking and bone grafting at the docking/regenerate site. Four patients in Group 2 required bone grafting at the docking site compared to none in Group 1. Results Eradication of infection and union was achieved in all patients with average time in frame being 12.1 months in the Acute Shortening group, 17.2 months in the Bone Transport group and 8.0 months in the Frame stabilisation group. Using Paley’s bone result evaluation system, an excellent result was achieved in all patients of all groups. However, patients in the Acute Shortening group had a shorter time to union and needed fewer procedures. Conclusions We recommended that where feasible, acute shortening and lengthening is preferable to bone transport due to shorter union time and fewer procedures undertaken to achieve union. If this is not possible due to large defects, then a combination of acute shortening with transport to bridge the gap should be considered

Introduction

The objective of this study is to report the first cases of femoral lengthening in children using Ilizarov fixator.

Introduction: The accepted treatment for unstable displaced tibial shaft fractures in adults is primary closed reduction and intramedullary nailing. However, this method poses a problem when treating young adolescents whose epiphyseal plates have not yet closed. We used the Ilizarov external fixation as an alternative method of treatment for these patients.

Patients and Methods: 13 patients with displaced unstable tibial shaft fractures (11 boys, 2 girls; age 13 to 16 yrs), of which 5 were open (Gustilo I–II), were treated by this method from 1995–2000. The Ilizarov frame was applied to 3 patients within the first 2 days of injury, a further 6 during the 1st week and 4 on the 2nd week or later.

All patients were allowed to weight bear from the first postoperative week. Physiotherapy was started immediately after operation and continued until normal knee and ankle function was regained. Dynamization was done in all cases 2 weeks before removal of frame. Following removal, the patients were advised to use crutches for an additional two weeks.

Results: A good or excellent alignment with full ROM in the ankle and knee joints was obtained in all patients. There were no cases of delayed or non-union. No cases of contractures or nerve injuries were reported. Superficial pin tract infection was seen in 6 patients, treated by antibiotics and local care. No cases of osteomyelitis or deep infection occurred. Length of fixation was 8–15 weeks (mean 11 weeks).

Conclusions: This method permits fixation without danger of injury to the epiphysis in growing adolescents. The stability of the fixator allows early weight bearing and leaves the adjacent joints mobile. There is no necessity for POP after removal of frame. Due to early weight bearing and an unrestricted joint movement less muscle wasting occurs. The healing time is relatively shorter than in other methods of the treatment and the complications rate was low in the presented series.

Aims: To evaluate the clinical outcome of the treatment of severe high-energy war injuries to limbs using circular external þxation frames. Metods: 43 patients after war injuries with 57 high-energy fractures were treated. According to Gustilo and Anderson all fractures were open grade 3B and 3C. There was other major organ trauma in 52,8% of patients. On admission, the fractured bones were stabilized with an AO tubular external þxation frame followed by thorough extensive soft tissue debridement, vascular reconstruction if needed. After 5 to 7 days the tubular þxator is exchanged for a circular frame that allows receiving stability, sufþcient for full weight bearing by minimal invasive þxation and freeing the previously bridged joints, in order to preserve their range of movement. Closed reduction of fractures was performed in most patients by successful implementation of ligamentotaxis and use thin wires with olives. In patients with high-energy Ç ßoating joint È injuries the circular devices were connected by hinges to permit early initiation of joint motions and functional treatment. In patients with upper limb injuries a separate bone þxation was used to allow early ßexion/ extension and pronation/supination motions. Results: In all patients the circular external þxation was the deþnitive treatment. Bone grafting was not necessary in any patient because of compression-distraction possibility. Fracture union was achieved at median time of 8 months (range 3 60). Throughout the period of fracture healing the patients were ambulatory, living at home. Conclusion: The circular þxation frame allows perform successful skeletal stabilization and functional restoration of limbs in patients with extensive bone and soft tissue loss, even in limbs of the risk.

Background: The Ilizarov external fixation is considered to be a unique technique in limb surgery for mal-nonunion and limb deformities with or without length discrepancy. The theory suggests that the tension stress and the subsequent distraction osteogenesis, “opens a window” over hypervascularized- hypertrophic non-union for consolidation, and stimulates vascularization and osteogenesis in the avascular nonunion. Also, post traumatic bone deformities and axial deviations can be corrected by using special hinges incorporated in the device for uniplanar or multiplanar deformities. Recently, there are encouraging reports of high rate of consolidation using a non-bone grafting technique even in atrophic nonunions. However, the bifocal treatment is still preferable.

In our study we will review 28 patients suffering from mal- nonunion, whom were treated by an Ilizarov external fixation, and the results of the treatment concerning radiological alignment and consolidation rate.

Methods: Twenty-eight patients have been operated in our department during the last eight years due to mal-union (19 patients), mal- nonunion (3 patients) and non-union (6 patients) of fractures.

Malunions were treated either with acute or gradual correction of the deformity, following low energy osteotomy. For hypertrophic nonunion and mal-nonunion in general only distraction compression technique (mono-focal) was used. Atrophic and infected nonunion were treated with a bifocal technique (so-called bone transport), except for one case treated with monofocal technique only.

Results: The average age of the patients at operation was 31 years old (12–71), six female and 22 males. The average time in the device was 4 months (2–8) and average rate of consolidation was 3.6 mo. (2–7.5). All fractures and osteotomies healed thoroughly. Still, three cases of the mal unions remained suffering from residual deformity. Two patients had fracture of the regenerate after minimal trauma just after removal of device and treated with IMN. The most prevalent complication was pin tract infection, 24 out of 28 patients, all managed with P.O. antibiotics besides two patients who needed to be admitted for intravenous antibiotics. Two cases of lateral compartment muscle herniation of the leg appeared after fibular osteotomies, treated later by large fasciotomy.

Conclusions: The treatment of the different types of nonunion and malunion following fractures is a real challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. Many times the nonunions are the result of poor vascular supply to the involved limb. While the surgeon is facing old scars and poor nourishment of the entire limb, the Ilizarov external fixation, in most of the cases, enables us to deal with these difficult cases with minimal surgical exposure. In case of malunions, Ilizarov technique enables to achieve accurate angular correction of the deformities.

We treated the severe orthopaedic problems,for example, the deformity, the long bone defect and the severe soft tissue contracture,treated by Ilizarov external fixator for ten years. Ilizarov external fixator was used to stabilize the bone fragments and elongate the bone and soft tissue. The purpose of this study is to examine the usefulness and the problem of Ilizarov external fixator. Materials were 52 patients treated by Ilizarov external fixator.Age was from13 years old to 81 years old. The averaged age was 41.3 years old. The averaged follow up periods was 4 years 5 months.The causes of these diseases were trauma, infection and congenital anomaly etc. We examined the clinical results and the complications of this method.All deformities could be corrected without one patient.The callotasis of these cases were succeeded without one patient.The bone union could be get without one patient.These 2 patients were amputated because of the bleeding due to Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura and the non-healing of infection. The complications of these methods were fracture (4 cases), infection (2 cases), recurrent deformity (1 case), deformity of the talus (2 cases) and abnormal caltification (2 cases). We could get good clinical results but had some complications. Conclusion was that Ilizarov external fixator was useful for the treatment of the various kinds of the complicated orthopeadic problems and there were some complications as we used Ilizarov external fixator for the elongation of the soft tissue and bone

Purpose: Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita is a rare congenital disorder associated with multiple musculo-skeletal contractures which causes substantial morbidity. Knee involvement is commonly seen among children with arthrogryposis, with flexion contracture of the knee being the most frequent knee deformity. Knee flexion contractures in the paediatric population are particularly debilitating as they affect ambulation. Treatment for knee flexion contractures requires numerous orthopaedic procedures and an extensive follow-up period. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of orthopaedic procedures, namely distal femoral extension osteotomy and/or Ilizarov external fixator, on the ambulation status of children with knee flexion contracture. Method: The medical records and radiological images of 16 paediatric patients with arthrogryposis and knee flexion contractures were reviewed. The etiology of all of them was amyoplasia except for one case of popliteal pterygium. The mean age of first surgery was 6.2 years (age range: 1–15 years). The mean length of follow-up was 83.9 months. All patients’ knee flexion contractures were treated with femoral extension osteotomy, Ilizarov external fixator, or both. Two patients previously had posterior soft tissue releases, including hamstrings lengthenings, proximal gastrocnemius release, and release of posterior capsule. Results: Prior to the initial surgery for knee flexion contracture, 13 patients were non-ambulatory. One patient was a household ambulator with flexed knees. Two patients walked with orthoses. There was an average of 1.8 surgeries done per patient, namely distal femoral extension osteotomy and/or Ilizarov external fixator. At the latest follow-up, 12 patients were ambulatory, including 11 children ambulating with technical aids (orthosis, walker, braces, or rollator walker) and one child ambulating without any technical aid. Four patients remained non-ambulatory. The mean total arc of motion was 64.8 degrees preoperatively, 63.1 degrees postoperatively, and 52.8 degrees at the latest follow-up. A mean loss of 6.8 degrees per year in total arc of motion occurred. There were complications in four patients which consist of infected hardware, transient neurological compromise, cast change, and pressure sore. Conclusion: Surgical correction of knee flexion deformities by distal femoral extension osteotomy and/or Ilizarov external fixator was effective in improving the ambulation status of children with arthrogryposis. At latest follow-up, the gradual loss of total arc of motion did not impact the ambulatory gains made by these procedures

Purpose: Our aim was to evaluate the use of Ilizarov external fixator for ankle arthrodesis in severe post-traumatic or other ankle arthritis. Patients and Methods: In the period of 8 years, 19 patients underwent ankle arthrodesis with the Ilizarov external fixator for severe ankle arthritis. In four patients the indication for arthrodesis was infection following failed surgical management of tibia plafond fractures, four patients had failed prior ankle arthrodesis and the rest suffered severe ankle arthritis. Eleven patients were male, eight female, with a mean age of 52 years (range 30–71 years). Seven patients had deformities greater then 10°. All had painful stiff ankle joints and 12 patients had disorder of ankle joint anatomy with significant limp. Anterior approach to the ankle joint was preferred, associated with distal fibular osteotomy. Secondary gradual corrections of postoperative deformity and additional compression at the arthrodesis site were performed with the Ilizarov system by closed manipulation. Following frame removal the arthrodesis was immobilised in a cast for a mean of 4 weeks. Results: The mean follow-up period was 3,9 years. A solid ankle arthrodesis was achieved in 18 of the 19 cases. Failure of solid arthrodesis was detected in one patient with insufficient arthroscopic removal of articular cartilage and internal fixation was performed. In one case with major pin tract infection at the distal talus ring distal expansion of the frame was required. According to the Mazur rating system in 12 patients the results were good, in 5 patients fair and in 2 patients poor. Conclusion: The use of Ilizarov external fixator for ankle arthrodesis provides significant interfragmentary compression forces, allows early weight bearing and post-operative adjustment of alignment of arthrodesis. This method should be considered as the treatment of choice in ankle arthrodesis, especially in revision cases and in the cases with infection around of the ankle joint

Abstract. The specific methods of skeletal reconstruction of massive bone loss remains a topic of controversy. The problem increased in case of massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants. Aim of the work. We evaluate the use of fibula in association of Ilizarov external fixator in management of massive post traumatic bone loss of tibial shaft. Materials and methods. Between December 1999 and 2004, we treated 8 adult patients with bone loss 10 cm and more. The indication was massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants. Whole fibula was used in 6 conditions and partial fibula in 2. The average age was 30.5 years (range: 25:51). The fibulas were prepared for transfer either as a whole or partially transfer. Ilizarov device was applied with a special construct for each condition accordingly. Free latismus dorsi was applied in 1 patient, and fasciocutanious flaps in 2. Four patients with whole fibula transfer continued to wear orthosis for outdoor activities. Results. The mean follow-up period was 40 months (range: 24:96) after healing. All fractures heeled between 8 and 24 months. Conclusion. We concluded that the Ilizarov external fixator is effective in management of management of massive post traumatic bone loss of tibial shaft. It provides advantages of compensation of bone defects, length, and early rehabilitation. It has the disadvantages of long healing time, long orthotic support. Its advantages are clear in case of massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants

Despite multiple published reviews, the optimum method of correction and stabilisation of Blount's disease remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of acute correction of late-onset tibial vara by percutaneous proximal tibial osteotomy with circular external fixation using two simple rings. This technique was developed to minimise cost in a context of limited resources. This study was conducted between 2016 and 2020. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical notes and radiographs of 30 patients (32tibiae) who had correction of late-onset tibia by proximal tibial osteotomy and Ilizarov external fixator. All cases were followed up to 2 years. The mean proximal tibial angle was 65.7° (±7.8) preoperatively and 89.8° (±1.7) postoperatively. The mean mechanical axis deviation improved from 56.2 (±8.3) preoperatively to 2.8 (±1.6) mm postoperatively. The mean femoral-tibial shaft angle was changed from – 34.3° (±6.7) preoperatively to 5.7° (±2.8) after correction. Complications included overcorrection (9%) and pin tract infection (25%). At final follow up, all patients had full knee range of motion and normal function. All cases progressed to union and there were no cases of recurrence of deformity. This simple procedure provides secure fixation allowing early weight bearing and early return to function. It can be used in the context of health care systems with limited resources. It has a relatively low complication rate. Our results suggest that acute correction and simple circular frame fixation is an excellent treatment choice for cases of late-onset tibia vara, especially in severe deformities

The specific methods of skeletal reconstruction of massive bone loss remains a topic of controversy. The problem increased in case of massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants. Aim of the work: We evaluate the use of fibula in association of Ilizarov external fixator in management of massive post traumatic bone loss of tibial shaft. Materials and Methods: Between December 1999 and 2004, we treated 8 adult patients with bone loss 10 cm and more. The indication was massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants. Whole fibula was used in 6 conditions and partial fibula in 2. The average age was 30.5 years (range: 25:51). The fibulas was prepared for transfer either as a whole or partially transfer. Ilizarov device was applied with a special construct for each condition accordingly. Free latismus dorsi was applied in 1 patient, and fasciocutanious flaps in 2. Four patients with whole fibula transfer continued to wear orthosis for outdoor activities. Results: The mean follow-up period was 40 months (range: 24:96) after healing. All fractures heeled between 8 and 24 months. Conclusion: We concluded that the Ilizarov external fixator is effective in management of management of massive post traumatic bone loss of tibial shaft. It provides advantages of compensation of bone defects, length, and early rehabilitation. It has the disadvantages of long healing time, long orthotic support. Its advantages are clear in case of massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants

Background. Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita is a rare congenital disorder associated with multiple musculoskeletal contractures which causes substantial morbidity. Knee involvement is commonly seen among children with arthrogryposis, with flexion contracture being the most frequent. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of orthopaedic procedures, namely distal femoral supracondylar extension osteotomy and/or Ilizarov external fixator, on the ambulation status of children with knee flexion contracture and whether any functional gains are maintained at the latest follow-up. Methods. Fifteen patients were identified and their medical records reviewed. The mean age at their first surgery was 7.6 years (range, 2-16 years). The etiology for all patients was amyoplasia. The mean length of follow-up was 58 months (range, 12-117 months). Contractures were treated with femoral extension osteotomy (n=8), Ilizarov external fixator (n=2), or both (n=5). Results. Pre-operatively, 11 patients were non-ambulatory, three patients were household ambulators, and one patient walked with orthoses in the community. There was an average of 1.5 knee surgeries done per patient. At the latest follow-up, nine patients were ambulatory with technical aids, two patients were household ambulators, one patient used a wheelchair but was independent for transfers, and three patients remained non-ambulatory. The mean flexion contracture prior to the first surgery was 62.8 ± 26.7 degrees. Post-operatively, the mean flexion contracture was 13.5 ± 16.4 degrees. At the latest follow-up, the mean flexion contracture was 33.8 ± 23.6 degrees. There were complications in three patients which included infected hardware, transient neurological compromise, and pressure sores, which eventually all resolved. Conclusion. early and aggressive orthopaedic management of flexion contractures in children with arthrogryposis is supported by our findings, and may contribute to functional gains

Aim: Our purpose was to evaluate the use of indirect and closed reduction with Ilizarov external fixator in intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Materials and Methods: In a period of 5 years (2004–2008), 26 patients with 29 intra-articular fractures of calcaneus (eighteen type III and eleven type IV according to Sanders classification) were treated with the Ilizarov fixator. Twenty-one patients were male and five female. The average age was 45 years (range 22 – 67 years). Five fractures were open. Fractures were evaluated by preoperative radiographs and CT scans. Restoration of the calcaneal bone anatomy was obtained by closed means using minimally invasive reduction technique by Ilizarov fixator. Arthrodiatasis and ligamentotaxis, and closed reduction of the subtalar joint were performed in 24 cases. In 5 cases the depressed posterior calcaneal facet was elevated by small lateral incision and stabilized in frame by wires. Postoperatively, partial, early weight bearing was encouraged in all patients. Results: The mean follow-up period was 2,1 years (range 1 – 4 years). The AOFAS Ankle – Hindfoot Score, and physical examination were used in functional evaluation. The average score was 77,4 (range 70–90). Seven patients had limited degenerative radiological findings of osteoarthrosis about the subtalar joint and three of them had painful subtalar movement. Two of the patients complained of heel pad pain. Nine patients had grade II pin tract infections and were detected from a total of 258 wires. No secondary reconstructive procedures, including osteotomies, subtalar fusions, or amputations, have been done. Conclusion: Indirect closed reduction of calcaneal bone anatomy and arthrodiatasis of subtalar joint with Ilizarov external fixator is a viable surgical alternative for intra-articular calcaneal fractures

Background:. The aim of this study was to review the surgical complications and clinical outcomes of patients with Pilon fractures treated with Ilizarov frames. Methods:. Data collected included surgical complications, grade of initial injury using the Ruedi-Allgower classification and quality of reduction according to the Teeny and Wiss criteria. Outcome scores were collected retrospectively using the Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI). Results:. A total of 97 consecutive patients were identified. All patients were treated with indirect reduction by capsuloligamentotaxis and stabilisation using an ankle-spanning Ilizarov external fixator. The mean time to union was 6 months. Data was available for 70 patients. 35 patients developed a pin site infection. There were no cases of osteomyelitis. 4 patients developed a DVT and 1 patient a PE, 4 patients required ankle fusions. Quality of reduction according to the criteria of Teeny and Wiss was anatomic in 40 patients, good in 23 patients, fair in 6 patients, poor in 3 patients. Conclusion:. This is one of the larger series of Pilon factures on literature review. Ilizarov frame fixation achieves stable reduction of the fractured fragments without additional trauma to soft tissues with minimal complications and good functional results

Introduction:. Bicondylar tibial plateau fractures are serious periarticular injuries. We investigated outcomes in injuries managed with Ilizarov external fixators. Methods:. We retrospectively reviewed bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated with Ilizarov fixators in a major trauma centre from 2008–2012. Radiological parameters were measured from standardised weight-bearing radiographs. A subset (n=34) had patient-related outcome measures. Results:. Of 80 injuries, all fractures united. Two developed septic arthritis and one osteomyelitis. 76.3% were graded a good-excellent outcome (Rasmussen radiological score). 30.3% had evidence of osteoarthritis (Kellgren Lawrence>1). Neither parameter correlated significantly with lower functional scores. Referrals from neighbouring hospitals had longer times to surgery, which associated with increased condylar widening (p=0.0214) and posterior tibial slope (p=0.0332). Risk of developing osteoarthritis correlated with lower joint line congruency angle (JLCA) (p=0.0017) and increased articular step-off (p=0.0008) on initial radiographs. 3 patients have progressed to total knee arthroplasty. Discussion and Conclusion:. This is the largest study of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated by Ilizarov fixation. Rates of septic arthritis and osteomyelitis compare with previously reported rates, with no cases of non-union. Over 76% achieved good-excellent radiological outcome, compared with 63–96% in studies of internal fixation. Achieving normal JLCA and smooth articular surface at the time of fixation reduce risk of developing osteoarthritis