A preliminary experience: the Ilizarov external fixator

The Ilizarov external fixator, though developed over 35 years ago in the Soviet Union, is only now gaining popularity in the United States. Its design and versatility allow the physician to treat a wider range of limb maladies than other external fixation systems (eg, the Hoffmann device). The Ilizarov method of fixation also permits treatment of some orthopedic conditions that were previously considered to be untreatable, such as dwarfism. The device can be used to correct limb length discrepancies, manage open and closed fractures, nonunions, and bony or soft tissue deformities. A review of the first 25 cases performed at the University of Louisville revealed 15 which have been successfully completed with significant, but manageable complications, and 10 cases which are still in progress.