Ankle arthrodesis using the Ilizarov apparatus: good results in 6 patients

We report our experience with the Ilizarov apparatus in performing ankle arthrodesis in 6 patients. The average age of the patients was 52 (42-60) years. 3 patients had posttraumatic arthrosis and active infection of the ankle or distal tibia and the other 3 had posttraumatic arthrosis of the ankle without infection. Solid and painless arthrodesis was achieved in all patients in 7-15 weeks, including those with an active infection or failed multiple previous operations. While the method is useful for primary treatment of ankle arthrosis, we think it is better for treatment of certain complicated cases.