The application of the Ilizarov method in the treatment of foot deformities

Background. This article presents the indicationa and counterindications for the application of the Ilizarov method in the treatment of foot deformities. Two basic methods for the correction of deformities are described: distraction of soft tissues and distraction at the site of osteotomy. The surgical procedure for the distraction method is described, along with indications for various types of osteotomy in the vicnity of the foot (aboveankle osteotomy, U osteotomy, V osteotomy, posterior osteotomy of the calcaneal bone, osteotomies between the Lisfranic and Chopart joints). The authors also present their own alternative method for the correction of deformities, which consists in a combination of joint resection with distraction at the resection site.
Material and method. The treatment outcome is presented for 23 feet in 27 patients treated with an Ilizarov apparatus. Various surgical techniques were used.
Results. Complete and permanent correction of foot shape was achieved in 18 of the 23 patients. Is the remaining 5 patients further treatment was required.
Conclusions. The use of the Ilizarov method in treating foot deformities produces favorable results.