Ilizarov External Fixation for Correcting Complex Postpolio Foot and Ankle Deformity: A Case Study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Postpoliomyelitic foot and ankle deformities present significant functional challenges.
• Traditional correction methods can be invasive, involving osteotomies, fusions, or tendon transfers.

Observation:

• A 40-year-old male with severe postpoliomyelitic equinocavovarus deformity was treated.
• Dynamic, hinged Ilizarov external fixation was employed for gradual correction over 103 days in two steps.

Findings:

• The treatment resulted in a functional, plantigrade foot, maintained with casting, bracing, and physiotherapy.
• The patient achieved a painless, plantigrade foot with functional ambulation over two years post-surgery.
• This technique avoided the need for osteotomies, ankle arthrodesis, or tendon transfers.

Implications:

• Dynamic Ilizarov external fixation offers a viable, less invasive alternative for correcting severe postpoliomyelitic foot deformities.
• This approach can restore function and improve quality of life for affected individuals.
• Further studies can explore the long-term efficacy and broader applicability of this technique.