Surgical treatment of tibial pseudarthrosis using the Ilizarov apparatus. A critical analysis

Since November 1985 the authors have added the Ilizarov procedure to their armamentarium for the treatment of tibial pseudarthrosis. The results of a first clinical study of 10 patients are reported. The mean duration of follow-up is 17 months. The consolidation rate is higher with a transverse than with an oblique pseudarthrosis. The Ilizarov procedure combined with a corticotomy offers new perspectives in the management of massive bone defects. In the presence of severe malalignment, a gradual reduction can be carried out. The main complications are pin tract infections and algodystrophy.