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Correction of complex foot deformities using the Ilizarov external fixator
Mehmet Kocaoğlu1, Levent Eralp, Ata Can Atalar
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University, Istanbul School of Medicine, Turkey. kocaoglum@superonline.com
Summary
The Ilizarov method effectively corrects complex foot deformities, offering a viable alternative to traditional treatments. This technique achieved plantigrade feet and improved gait in most patients, particularly those with prior surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Conventional treatments for complex foot deformities carry risks like neurovascular injury and foot shortening.
- The Ilizarov method presents an alternative approach to address these limitations.
Observation:
- 23 complex foot deformities in 22 patients were treated using the Ilizarov method.
- Etiologies included burn contracture, poliomyelitis, clubfoot, trauma, and leg-length discrepancy (LLD).
- Mean fixator duration was 5.1 months, with corrections performed both with and without osteotomy.
Findings:
- A plantigrade foot was achieved in 21 of 23 cases, confirmed by pressure mat analysis.
- Subjective gait improvement was reported in all patients post-treatment.
- Common complications included pin-tract issues (all cases), with other issues like toe contractures and residual deformities occurring less frequently.
Implications:
- The Ilizarov method is a safe and effective treatment for complex foot deformities, especially in cases with prior surgical interventions.
- This technique offers a promising alternative for complex foot reconstruction, improving functional outcomes.
- Further research could explore optimizing pin-tract care to minimize complications.