Ilizarov technique for correction of the Shepherd's crook deformity: a report of two cases

We report 2 patients with fibrous dysplasia who underwent correction, using the Ilizarov technique, of Shepherd's crook deformities and pathological fractures of the left femurs. A 12-year-old boy underwent an opening wedge osteotomy and a 48-degree gradual correction, whereas a 43-year-old woman underwent a 34-degree acute correction without osteotomy at the fracture site. Both patients could initiate early weight bearing. Final leg function was excellent and alignment was maintained. No complications were encountered. Both patients had no difficulty sleeping and no major complaints about the Ilizarov technique. It is more important to achieve accurate alignment than resection of the lesion. The Ilizarov technique is effective for treating the Shepherd's crook deformity in patients with fibrous dysplasia.