External fixation use in arthrodesis of the foot and ankle

The use of external fixation in foot and ankle arthrodesis can be beneficial. Its advantages, disadvantages, and indications were reviewed in this article. External fixation offers the surgeon an opportunity to treat complex foot and ankle deformities, trauma, chronic infections, pseudoarthroses, soft tissue contractures, and limb length discrepancies in ways that were unavailable before its advent. The Ilizarov technique requires considerable experience and patient compliance for the best postoperative outcome. An understanding of musculoskeletal physiology and the biomechanics of bone and soft tissue are essential for the competent application of external fixators in general and Ilizarov frames in particular. The surgeon should be aware of all the surgical options before the application of an external complex apparatus.