Long-term results with the Ilizarov technique for tibiocalcaneal fusion

Talar necrosis and infection are serious complications that have challenged orthopedic surgeons for years. In this study, 6 patients who underwent tibiocalcaneal fusion using the Ilizarov technique, predominantly for post-traumatic talar osteitis, were reviewed after mean follow-up of 8 years. Solid fusion was obtained in all cases. In 5 patients, simultaneous lengthening was performed through a proximal tibial corticotomy. Complications were related primarily to pin insertion sites. The Ilizarov technique can be used successfully for tibiocalcaneal fusion in complex cases with talar osteitis that otherwise may ultimately require amputation.