Mid-term walking ability after Charcot foot reconstruction using the Ilizarov ring fixator

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Podiatry
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Charcot arthropathy often requires surgical intervention after failed conservative treatments.
• Ilizarov external fixation allows for one-stage deformity correction and osteomyelitis resection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Ilizarov ring fixator external fixation for Charcot arthropathy.
• To determine if this method reliably restores walking ability.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 29 patients treated with Ilizarov ring fixators.
• Radiographic assessment of fusion and statistical analysis of factors influencing walking ability.

Main Results:

• 93% limb salvage rate achieved.
• 26 of 27 salvaged limbs maintained walking ability (23 without assistive devices).
• Walking ability was not dependent on radiologic fusion or initial osteomyelitis.

Conclusions:

• Ilizarov ring fixator reconstruction is effective for limb salvage in Charcot arthropathy.
• High rates of ambulation are achievable, irrespective of fusion or osteomyelitis.
• This technique supports deformity correction and limb salvage in challenging cases.