Gradual closed correction of equinus contracture using the Ilizarov apparatus

We treated 16 patients with equinus contracture using the Ilizarov method without open soft tissue release. No hinge was used in seven patients; instead, their ankle joint was used as the hinge (natural hinge; unconstrained construct). In the remaining nine patients, medial and lateral hinges connecting the tibial and foot rings were placed at the center of the talar dome (rotating hinge; constrained construction). We assessed the results in terms of the extent of dorsiflexion, its improvement, and complications. There was little difference between the results in the natural hinge group and the rotating hinge group. The natural hinge system is therefore the method of choice for treating equinus contracture because it is less invasive and simpler. However, particular care is needed during correction to avoid complications such as anterior subluxation of the talus and joint space narrowing. When complications do occur, intervention should be immediate.