Treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia with the Ilizarov method

Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a difficult orthopedic problem. Many modalities of treatment have been used but none provide comprehensive treatment with highly satisfactory results. We reviewed the surgical management and results of eight consecutive patients with CPT treated with the Ilizarov technique for nonunion, angulation, leg length discrepancy and valgus ankle between 1988 and 1992. The median age at the time of Ilizarov treatment was 1.8 years (range, 0.4-20.1 yr). Primary union at the pseudarthrosis site was achieved in five of the eight patients. After a median follow-up period of 5.2 years (range, 3.0-6.2 yr), final union at the pseudarthrosis site was achieved in seven of the eight patients (union rate, 87.5%). However, nonunion persisted at the distraction site in one patient. In the six patients who achieved union and functional recovery, the median number of total surgeries was four; there were two residual deformities. Leg length discrepancy was corrected in these six patients to less than 1.7 cm. Six out of the eight patients were satisfied with the results. In general, the treatment course was lengthy with numerous complications, especially in young children. The Ilizarov technique, with its ring design, simultaneously addresses several problems associated with CPT, and may provide a comprehensive treatment for CPT with promising results. Combination treatment with other methods is necessary.