Preoperative Ilizarov frame construction for correction of ankle and foot deformities

The Ilizarov method is being used increasingly to correct many orthopedic deformities. The frames required for ankle and foot deformity correction are among the most difficult to construct owing to the complexity of the deformities which must be corrected. A technique using a rubberized material (Pedilen) to create an exact replica of a preoperative ankle and foot deformity is described. This exact model, both in size and shape, may then be used on a workbench to preconstruct an Ilizarov frame that resembles the patient's deformity exactly in three dimensions with respect to size and shape. This allows thoughtful frame construction before operation reducing operating time and minimizing frustrations that may arise with complex deformities.