Ilizarov external fixation in the treatment of comminuted leg fractures

Fifty consecutive comminuted leg fractures were treated by Ilizarov external fixation. Eleven were closed fractures, 37 were Grade II, and 2 were Grade III open fractures. Forty-five fractures healed within 6 months. In 5 fractures the Ilizarov device was removed and healing occurred by intramedullary nailing (2 cases) and decortication (3 cases). The causes of failure were: rapid peroneal union or bone fragment necrosis. Subjective tolerance and fracture stability are limited by septic loosening of the wires requiring frame removal after 6 to 8 months. Excellent results may be obtained (no leg length discrepancy, no angulation, no rotation, no joint stiffness), but the time required for union is long and additional surgery is required.