Introduction. Traditionally, radiological union of fractures treated with an Ilizarov frame is confirmed by a period of dynamization - destabilisation of the frame for a period prior to removal. Reduced clinic availability during the COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift to selective dynamisation in our department, whereby lower risk patients had their frames removed on the same day as destabilisation. This study investigates the effects of this change in practice on outcomes and complication rates. Materials & Methods. Adult patients treated with circular frames between April 2020 and February 2022 were identified from our Ilizarov database. Patients were divided into 2 groups: - “dynamised” if their frame was destabilised for a period to confirm union prior to removal; or “not dynamised” if the decision was taken to remove the frame without a period of dynamisation, other than a short period in the clinic. A retrospective review of clinical notes was conducted to determine outcome. Results. 175 patients were included in the final analysis, 70 in the dynamised and 103 in the not dynamised groups, median follow-up was 33 months. 3 patients in the dynamised group failed dynamisation and had their period of fixation extended, subsequently having their frames removed without complication. Two patients suffered a refracture or non-union after frame removal in the dynamised group and none in the not dynamised group, this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions. In our practice, selective frame removal without a period of dynamisation appears safe. This has the potential to shorten frame time and reduce the number of clinic appointments and radiographic investigations for these patients. Some patients find the period of dynamisation uncomfortable and associated with pin site infection, which can be avoided. We plan to continue this practice and collect further data to confirm these findings in a larger dataset

Introduction. The aim of the study is to evaluate the results of using Ilizarov technique for correcting the post traumatic lower limb deformities. Materials and Methods. This prospective study included 25 femurs (Group A) and 65 tibias (Group B) underwent correction with Ilizarov technique and frame. Both groups had moderate and complex deformed segments. Outcomes were Ilizarov correction time, distraction index (DI), consolidation index (CI), Ilizarov index (II) and complications. Results. Within group A, mean correction of frontal plane deformity was 15°, sagittal plane was 10° rotational deformity was 20°. In group B, mean correction of frontal plane deformity was 19°, sagittal plane was 12° and rotational deformity was 10°. Conclusions. Ilizarov provided easy, accurate and excellent lower limb deformity correction and lengthening

Introduction. The objective of this study is to report the first cases of femoral lengthening in children using Ilizarov fixator. Materials and Methods. We carried out a retrospective study about the cases of femoral lengthening done in 2010 to 2020 in our BARI-ILIZAROV Orthopaedic centre Dhaka. Results. 48 lengthening were done during this period using Ilizarov fixator. The procedure was done incongenital bone diseases in 20 cases and after a distal femoral epiphysiodesis in 10 cases. The mean age at surgery was 12.8 years. Lengthening was required in all patients and an axis correction was required in 16 of 26 cases. The mean lengthening was 5.9 cm. The healing index was 45.5 day/cm (25.5–62). We noticed 8 knee stiffness and 5 broken wires. Knee Stiffness were corrected by Judet'squadricepsplasty and 6 broken wires were replaced by new wires. The goal of lengthening was reached in all cases. The goal of axis correction was reached in 98.5% of cases. Conclusions. Ilizarov technique allows to do accurate lengthening and axis correction and it is a unique reliable external fixator for femoral lengthening in children

Introduction. Pilon fractures are complex, high-energy, intra-articular fractures of the distal tibia. Achieving good outcomes is challenging due to fracture complexity and extensive soft tissue damage. The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term functional and clinical outcomes of definitive management with fine wire Ilizarov fixation for closed pilon fractures. Materials and Methods. 185 patients treated over a 14-year period (2004–2018) were included. All patients had Ilizarov frames applied to restore mechanical axis and fine wires to control periarticular fragments. CT scans were performed post operatively to confirm satisfactory restoration of the articular surface. All frames were dynamized prior to removal. Patients' functional outcome was assessed using the validated Chertsey Outcome Score for Trauma (“COST”). Review of clinical notes and imaging was used to determine complications and time to union. Results. The mean functional outcome in the studied cohort was determined to be “average” on the “COST” score. Poorer functional outcomes were associated with younger age at time of injury and multi-fragment fracture patterns. Mean time in frame was 170 days. Complication rates were low. There were no deep infections, no amputations and only 8 patients went on to have ankle fusions. Conclusions. Good functional results and low complication rates can be achieved by managing pilon fractures with fine wire Ilizarov fixation. Nonetheless, at time of injury patients should be counselled as to the severity of the injury and impact on their functional status

Background. It is an accepted fact that Ilizarov frames are difficult to live with. Professionals advise patients that things get easier over time, but, there is little evidence to support this. This study examined the course of patient's self-reported anxiety and depression during treatment with an Ilizarov frame. Method. Over 12 months, 66 trauma and elective patients were prospectively recruited to the study. Patients completed validated questionnaires measuring anxiety and depression (GAD-7 and PHQ-9) at set time points through their treatment ranging from before the frame was fitted through to after it was removed. Results. Complete data sets were collected for sixty patients. Two patients were unable to be included and four have yet to complete treatment. There is a trend towards decreasing anxiety and depression throughout the period evaluated. However, of seven patients who scored within the ‘severe’ range (PHQ/GAD = 15+) before the Ilizarov frame was applied, four remained in the ‘severe’ range at the treatment end. Conclusion. We have shown that psychological screening can be easily incorporated into standard practise, and found that early screening of psychological distress can identify the small but significant group of patients who go on to have prolonged adverse psychological reactions

Introduction and Objective. Management of gap non-union of the tibia, the major weight bearing bone of the leg remains controversial. The different internal fixation techniques are often weighed down by relatively high complication rates that include fractures which fail to heal (non-union). Minimally invasive techniques with ring fixators and bone transport (distraction osteogenesis) have come into picture as an alternative allowing alignment and stabilization, avoiding a graduated approach. This study was focused on fractures that result in a gap non-union of > 6 cm. Ilizarov technique was employed for management of such non-unions in this case series. The Ilizarov apparatus consists of rings, rods and kirschner wires that encloses the limb as a cylinder and uses kirschner wires to create tension allowing early weight bearing and stimulating bone growth. Ilizarov technique works on the principle of distraction osteogenesis, that is, pulling apart of bone to stimulate new bone growth. Usually, 4–5 rings are used in the setup depending on fracture site and pattern for stable fixation. In this study, we demonstrate effective bone transport and formation of gap non-union more than 6 cm in 10 patients using only 3 rings construct Ilizarov apparatus. Materials and Methods. This case study was conducted at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The study involved 10 patients with a non-union or gap > 6 cm after tibial fracture. 3 rings were used in the setup for the treatment of all the patients. Wires were passed percutaneously through the bone using a drill and the projecting ends of the wires were attached to the metal rings and tensioned to increase stability. The outcome of the study was measured using the Oxford Knee scoring system, Functional Mobility Scale, the American Foot and Ankle Score and Visual Analog Scale. Further, follow up of patients was done upto 2 years. Results. All the patients demonstrated good fixation as was assessed clinically and radiologically. 9 patients had a clinical score of > 65 which implied fair to excellent clinical rating. The patients showed good range of motion and were highly satisfied with the treatment as measured by different scoring parameters. Conclusions. In this case study, we demonstrate that the Ilizarov technique using 3 rings is equally effective in treating non-unions > 6 cm as when using 4–5 rings. Obtaining good clinical outcome and low complication rate in all 10 patients shows that this modified technique can be employed for patients with such difficulties in the future

Aims. Ilizarov described four methods of treating non-unions but gave little information on the specific indications for each technique. He claimed, ‘infection burns in the fire of regeneration’ and suggested distraction osteogenesis could effectively treat infected non-unions. This study investigated a treatment algorithm for described Ilizarov methods in managing infected tibial non-union, using non-union mobility and segmental defect size to govern treatment choice. Primary outcome measures were infection eradication, bone union and ASAMI bone and function scores. Patients and Methods. A consecutive series of 79 patients with confirmed, infected tibial non-union, were treated with one of four Ilizarov protocols, consisting of; monofocal distraction (26 cases), monofocal compression (19), bifocal compression/distraction (16) and bone transport (18). Median non-union duration was 10 months (range 2–168). All patients had undergone at least one previous operation (mean 2.2; range 1–5), 38 had associated limb deformity and 49 had non-viable non-unions. Twenty-six cases (33%) had a new simultaneous muscle flap reconstruction at the time of Ilizarov surgery and 25 had pre-existing flaps reused. Treatment algorithm based on assessment of bone gap and non-union stiffness, measured after resection of non-viable bone. Results. The treatment algorithm was easy to apply, being based on easily assessable criteria. Infection was eradicated in 76 cases (96.2%) at a mean follow-up of 40.8 months (range 6–131). All three cases of infection recurrence occurred in the monofocal compression group. They required repeat excision and Ilizarov distraction in two cases and below-knee amputation in one. Union was achieved in 68 cases (86.1%) with the initial Ilizarov methods alone. Union was highest amongst the monofocal distraction and bifocal compression/distraction groups, 96.2% and 93.8% respectively. Mean external fixator time was 7.5 months (range 3–17). Monofocal compression was successful in only 73.7% of mobile non-unions, with significantly lower ASAMI scores and a 26.3% re-fracture rate. Bone transport secured union in 77.8% (14/18) but with a 44.4% unplanned reoperation rate. However, after further treatment, infection-free union following bone transport was 100%. Conclusion. We cannot recommend Ilizarov monofocal compression in the treatment of infected, mobile non-unions. Distraction (monofocal or bifocal) was effective and is associated with higher rates of union and infection clearance

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of Ilizarov frame fixation and total contact casting on the complications of Charcot arthropathy. The diabetic charcot foot or ankle is a potentially limb threatening disorder. This progressive disorder is characterised by osteopenia, bone fragmentation and joint subluxation. The risk of significant deformity and osteomyelitis lead to high rates of amputation in these patients. We analysed patients with acute charcot arthropathy attending the Rowley Bristow Unit between 2008 and 2012. We assessed 48 patients with a mean age of 59 years. Mean follow up was 24 months. 12 patients were managed with Ilizarov frame fixation and 36 using total contact casting. The duration of management was determined using serial infrared temperature monitoring to ensure the temperature of the limb normalised before patients were deemed safe to remove their immobilisation. The mean duration of Iliazarov frame fixation was 6.2 months and 5.3 months duration for total contact casting. In the Ilizarov group pin site infections were common and treated with a short course of antibiotics. In total one patient required below knee amputation following Ilizarov frame fixation. No patients suffered with osteomyelitis. We feel that prompt management of acute charcot arthropathy with either total contact casting where appropriate or Ilizarov frame fixation can reduce serious complications of this disorder

Introduction: Ilizarov frames are widely used as an external fixation system. Whether applied for trauma, bone transport or deformity-correction they are usually applied for a minimum of three months and can be used for over a year. The psychological and lifestyle impact of frames has been shown to be significant. Purpose: We examined the informational needs of patients with Ilizarov frames pre and post-operatively. We then assessed how these needs are met by the provision of a nurse-led support group. Methods: All patients with Ilizarov frames applied at Hope Hospital, Manchester were contacted by postal questionnaire. Questions were asked about preparation before surgery, changes to lifestyle and information received. Specific questions were asked about attendance at the nurse-led Ilizarov support group. Results: Thirty-seven patients replied. Twenty-two had frames on and fifteen had recently had them removed. Most patients reported feeling well prepared before surgery regarding the likely impact on their lives. Two-thirds (twenty-five) felt they had received adequate information. Three-quarters (twenty-six) patients had attended the Ilizarov support group and most (twenty-one) had attended the group pre¬operatively. Over three-quarters of patients agreed they would attend the group with a “frame problem” before attending their own GP. All patients found the group supportive and felt comfortable discussing their problems. Conclusion: The Ilizarov Support Group is a useful resource for people with frames. The group atmosphere is supportive to patients and it is a valuable problem-solving environment. It helps patients prepare for their surgery and reduces attendance to primary care providers for frame related problems. We suggest other Ilizarov units may benefit from the provision of such a service

The present study was conducted to evaluate the cost of physiotherapy both for inpatient and outpatient services. Significant physiotherapy resources are required to rehabilitate patients with an Ilizarov or Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF). Within Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust Physiotherapy department the average number of outpatient treatment sessions per routine patient is 6. In comparison, the average number of treatment sessions required for a patient with an ilizarov (or TSF) is 24 for a trauma patient and 33 for a patient undergoing an elective procedure. Seventy three (73) patients received physiotherapy treatment with an Ilizarov frame or a Taylor spatial frame between April 2008 and April 2010. Physiotherapy input was recorded (in minutes) for the patients identified. This included treatment received as an inpatient as well as an outpatient (if the patient received their treatment within Hull and East Yorkshire NHS trust). Data collection was divided into either trauma or elective procedure for analytical purposes. The average cost of physiotherapy treatment to Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust for an inpatient with an ilizarov frame is £121.82 per case (trauma) and £133.15 per case (elective). The average cost of physiotherapy treatment to Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust for an outpatient for a trauma case was calculated as £404.65 and £521.41for an average elective case. This is in comparison to a routine patient costing the service £60.29 (when treated by a Band 7 physiotherapist). The present study gives valuable data for future business planning and assistance with the setting of local or national tariffs for the treatment of this patient group

Aims. To investigate a treatment algorithm of various Ilizarov methods in managing infected tibial non-union. Patients and Methods. A consecutive series of 76 patients with infected tibial non-union were treated with one of four Ilizarov protocols, consisting of; monofocal distraction (25 cases), monofocal compression (18), bifocal compression/distraction (16) and bone transport (17). Median duration of non-union was 10.5 months (range 2–546 months). All patients underwent at least one previous operation, 36 had associated limb deformity and 49 had non-viable non-unions. Twenty-six cases had a new muscle flap at the time of Ilizarov surgery and 24 others had pre-existing flaps. Results. Infection was eradicated in 74 cases (96.1%) at a mean follow-up of 42 months (range 8–131). Both infection recurrences were in the monofocal compression group. Union was achieved in 66 cases (86.8%) with the initial Ilizarov method alone. Union was highest amongst the monofocal distraction and bifocal compression/distraction groups, 96% and 93.8% respectively. Monofocal compression was successful in only 77.8% of mobile non-unions. Bone transport secured initial union in 76.5% with a 47% unplanned reoperation rate. However, following further treatment union was 100% in the bone transport group compared to 88.9% in the monofocal compression group. Six cases sustained a refracture, with 5/6 occurring in the monofocal compression group, representing a 27.7% refracture rate. ASAMI scores were also significantly lower for the monofocal compression group. Conclusion. We do not recommend monofocal compression in the treatment of infected, mobile non-unions. Distraction (monofocal or bifocal) was more effective achieving higher rates of infection clearance, lower refracture rates and better ASAMI scores

Aim. Simultaneous use of Ilizarov techniques with transfer of free muscle flaps is not current standard practice. This may be due to concerns about duration of surgery, clearance of infection, potential flap failure or coordination of surgical teams. We investigated this combined technique in a consecutive series of complex tibial infections. Method. A single centre, consecutive series of 45 patients (mean age 48 years; range 19–85) were treated with a single stage operation to apply an Ilizarov frame for bone reconstruction and a free muscle flap for soft-tissue cover. All patients had a segmental bone defect in the tibia, after excision of infected bone and soft-tissue defects which could not be closed directly or with local flaps. We recorded comorbidities, Cierny-Mader and Weber-Cech classification, the Ilizarov method used, flap type, follow-up duration, time to union and complications. Results. 26 patients had osteomyelitis and 19 had infected non-union. Staphylococci were cultured in 25 cases and 17 had polymicrobial infections. Ilizarov monofocal compression was used in 14, monofocal distraction in 15, bifocal compression/distraction in 8, and bone transport in 8. 8/45 had an additional ankle fusion, 7/45 had an angular deformity corrected at the same time and 24 also had local antibiotic carriers inserted. Median time in frame was 5 months (3–14). 38 gracilis, 7 latissimus dorsi and 1 rectus abdominus flaps were used. One flap failed within 48 hours and was revised (flap failure rate 2.17%). There were no later flap complications. Flaps were not affected by distraction or bone transport. Mean follow-up was 23 months (10–89). 44/45 (97.8%) achieved bony union. Recurrence of infection occurred in 3 patients (6.7%). Secondary surgery was required to secure union with good alignment in 8 patients (17.8%; docking site surgery in 6, IM nailing in 2) and in 3 patients for infection recurrence. All were infection free at final follow-up. Conclusions. Simultaneous Ilizarov reconstruction with free muscle flap transfer is safe and effective in treating segmental infected tibial defects, and is not associated with an increased flap failure rate. It shortens overall time spent in treatment, with fewer operations per patient. However, initial theatre time is long and a committed multidisciplinary team is required to achieve good results

Purpose: End results analysis of surgical treatment of posttraumatic bone defects in the lower extremity by Ilizarov method and intramedullary nailing augmentation during consolidation. Materials and method: Between 1990–2000,83 patients with posttraumatic bone defect (femur 26, tibia 57) with an average age of 38 years (11–65y.) were surgically treated. Open fracture was the cause of bone defect in 50 patients (60%). In the rest 33 (40%) patients, the bone defect was the result of a surgical removal of a nonviable bone due to osteomyelitis or infected non-union. The average length of bone defect was 8,5 cm. (4–20 cm.). In all cases corticotomy and application of Ilizarov device was necessary to initiate bone transport. In 26 patients the Ilizarov device was removed during consolidation and interlocking intramedullary nailing was performed. Selection criteria for changing method were: 1) delayed union at the docking site (13 pt.), 2) Intolerance of the Ilizarov device (6 pt.), 3) Angular deformity > 10 degrees (7 pt.). Radiological and clinical assessment was performed periodically. Functional recovery and bone healing were evaluated according to A.S.A.M.I criteria. Results: Forty-eight patients (58%) presented delayed union at the docking site. In 35 patients compression- distraction was necessary to promote union. The rest 13 patients were healed using an interlocking intramedullary nailing. Three refractures needed reapplication of the Ilizarov device. Angular deformity of more than 10 degrees was found in 13 patients. Seven of them needed an osteotomy and intramedullary nailing. All bone defects were finally covered and solid bone formation resulted. Conclusions: The Ilizarov method offers unique advantages in treatment of bone defects. The use of an interlocking intramedullary nail during consolidation, is a treatment option for delayed docking site union and prolonged treatment time

Background:. Developing a successful outpatient service for Ilizarov frame removal provides both patient and cost benefits. Misinformation and patient trepidation can be detrimental to recovery and influence choices. Education may play an important role in tailoring an efficacious service. Objective:. Review Belfast Regional Limb Reconstruction frame removal practice, introduce changes aimed at improving care and evaluate effects. Methods:. 1 year retrospective review of Ilizarov frame removal. Evaluation of service prior to and following provision of a new patient information leaflet, alongside a test wire removal technique. Subsequent service evaluation supplemented via patient reported feedback questionnaire. Results:. Retrospectively 85% Ilizarov frames removed in clinic, 54% required Entonox. Annual cost £19000. 46% patients unaware of process, gathering information from unprofessional sources. General anaesthetic and analgesic requirements related to psychosocial influences; no correlation between fracture configuration, elective reconstructive cases and operative techniques. Prospectively 96% patients found information leaflet educational and beneficial. 87% Ilizarov frames removed in clinic. 100% patients who had outpatient removal recommend this method. Entonox use reduced to 15% with average pain score 4.6/10 without analgesia. Patients felt happier. Projected annual cost savings £3000. 100% rated service excellent. Discussion:. Professional education and a standardised outpatient removal process for Ilizarov frames, delivered by a dedicated specialist team, reduces morbidity and positively impacts service provision

The Ilizarov frame is a circular external fixator, invented by Professor Ilizarov in Siberia during the 1950’s. It uses the principle of distraction osteogenesis to form new bone in a variety of clinical situations where bone lengthening or realignment is needed. The Ilizarov frame began to be used in western medicine during the 1980’s and by 1993 over 6000 cases had been performed in Europe. Plain x-ray is one of the methods used to monitor the progress of patients fitted with an ilizarov frame. The aim of this study is establish a pattern of healing over time in patients with the Ilizarov frame using plain x-ray films. This will improve understanding of the procedure, aid clinicians in deciding when frame removal is appropriate and provide a method of early detection should healing not be progressing appropriately. This is a retrospective study looking at a series of 58 digitised anterior-posterior x-ray films of the tibia and fibula, taken at set time points post-operatively, from 17 patients fitted with an ilizarov frame (19 separate legs with ilizarov frames in total). Image J, an image analysis system, was used to measure pixel density from vertical slices down the centre of each fracture gap and at set intervals horizontally across the fracture gap. A mean pixel density value for each fracture gap was also calculated. The x-rays were standardised using a standard step wedge. Promising preliminary results show pixel density to be greater towards the medial aspect of the tibia, but this difference in pixel value decreases with time. This suggests that calcification of the new bone occurs medially to laterally across the tibia. Full results will be available in April and aim to build a picture of the fracture gap at set time points post-operatively, showing a pattern of calcification in patients with the Ilizarov frame that will become a useful clinical tool for deciding time of frame removal as well as affording early knowledge of problems with the healing process

Background: Fracture non-union remains a severe clinical problem. The methods of Ilizarov allow a new approach using a tensioned fine wire circular frame to construct cylinders around limb segments that are then manipulated with respect to each other with deformity correction using hinges. Ilizarov introduced the concept of bone formation in distraction. The use of fine wires and non-invasive techniques minimise bone and soft tissue damage. Method: Two hundred consecutive non-unions treated by the use of an Ilizarov frame were studied prospectively. The first 100 cases to have finished treatment were analysed. The mean time from fracture was 22.8 months (range: six months to 37 years) and the mean number of surgical procedures was four (range: one to 122). Eighty-eight percent affected the tibia. Unifocal compression was also used where bone loss was not a problem. Results: Ninety-three fractures united. There were two amputations for overwhelming infection, four refractures and one defaulter. Infection, present in 56 cases at presentation was eradicated in all successful cases. Time in the frame for unifocal distraction (n=6) was 6.0 months (2.5-13), for unifocal compression (n=36) was 8.4 months (2.8-20), for bifocal compression distraction (n=33) 10 months (2.9–17.4) and for bifocal excision distraction (n=24) 19 months (6.5–41). Comparing times in frame for tibial bifocal cases, compression/distraction was 9.1 months (2.9–17.4), excision with shortening and relengthening was 15.7 months (6.5–23.6) and excision/transport was 23.5 (12.6–41.5), indicating increasing time required for more radical treatments. Conclusion: The Ilizarov method provided an excellent technique for the treatment of non-unions. The technique was initially difficult for the surgeon and the patient but, with increasing experience, treatment times were reduced and the frames became progressively more manageable and less painful. In our hands, the Ilizarov frame has become the treatment of choice for all but the simplest non-unions

Background. To compare quality of life during treatment in children and adolescents with tibial fracture treated with either a definitive cast or Ilizarov frame. Methods. A prospective, longitudinal cohort study was undertaken. Patients aged between 5 and 17 years with tibial fractures treated with a cast or Ilizarov frame were recruited. Health-related quality of life was measured during treatment using the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Results were analysed based on time from injury. Statistical analysis was undertaken using a Kruksal-Wallis test. Results. Twenty patients with casts and 28 with Ilizarov frames were included. Median treatment time was two (1–4) months for casts and four (2–9) months for frames. A significant improvement was found in the child reported physical domain in both treatment groups based on time from application (<60 days vs. >60 days, frame: p<0.0001, cast: p=0.027). There was no significant difference in reported scores between treatment groups at the same time point. There were no differences in the child reported psychosocial domain scores at any time point or between treatment groups. Conclusion. There is no difference in health-related quality of life during treatment between patients treated for tibial fracture using a cast or an Ilizarov frame. Level of evidence. II

Introduction. The Ilizarov method for non-union comprises a range of treatment protocols designed to generate tissue, correct deformity, eradicate infection and secure union. The choice of specific reconstruction method is difficult, but should depend on the biological and mechanical needs of the non-union. We present a prospective series of patients with non-union of the tibia managed using a treatment algorithm based on the Ilizarov method and the viability of the non-union. Patients and methods. Forty-four patients (34 men and 10 women) were treated with 26 viable and 18 non-viable non-unions. Mean duration of non-union was 19 months (range 2-168). 25 patients had associated limb deformity and 37 cases were infected. 42 patients had undergone at least one previous operation. Bone resection was dictated by the presence of non-viable and infected tissue. Four Ilizarov protocols were used (monofocal distraction in 18 cases, monofocal compression in 11 cases, bifocal compression-distraction in 10 cases and 5 bone transports) depending on the stiffness of the non-union or the presence of segmental defect. Results. Union was achieved in 40 cases (91%) with Ilizarov method alone. Infection was eradicated in 35 cases (95%). Monofocal distraction produced union in all 18 stiff non-unions with little morbidity. Monofocal compression was successful in only 82% of mobile non-unions but failed to eradicate infection in 2 of 10 cases. Bifocal techniques allowed infection-free union in all 15 difficult segmental infected non-unions but required prolonged treatment times and bone grafting to docking sites. Complications included pin infection, hindfoot stiffness, refracture, one below-knee amputation and residual limb length discrepancy. Conclusion. We do not recommend monofocal compression in the treatment of infected, mobile non-unions. Distraction (monofocal or bifocal) was effective and is associated with high rates of clearance of infection

Purpose. Pilon fracture is a severe injury which has a great impact on the patients' lives, but in what extend is not clear yet in the literature. The purpose of this study was to investigate the gait alternations after treatment of patients who had pilon fractures. Materials & Methods. We have evaluated the gait pattern of patients who were treated with circular Ilizarov frame following pilon fractures in our department. The gait was tested by using a force plate in a walking platform. Ground Reaction Forces (GRF) and timing of gait phases data were collected during level walking at self-selected speeds. The patients performed two walking tasks for each limb and the collected data were averaged for each limb. Demographic, clinical, radiological, trauma outcome (COST) and quality of life questionnaire (SF-12) data were also collected. Results. We have analysed the gait through the GRF of twelve patients (aged 44.9 ±12.4 years), who had undergone treatment with circular Ilizarov frame following pilon fractures (67% were male). The tests were performed at an average of 10.5 months after the initial treatment. SF-12 Mental scores have returned to normal (mean 56.4 ±11.6) but physical scores remained impaired (mean 41.8 ±8.4). COST questionnaire scores reached average levels (47.1 ±15) in all dimensions (Symptoms: 51.4 ±16, Function: 44 ±14 and Mental Status: 56.6 ±16). During the push-off phase all the plantar flexor muscles are activated and the ankle plantar flexes to achieve the push off. It seems that this motion, is not achieved adequately with the affected limb and the patients are using their normal limb earlier (pre-swing is the start of the double support of the gait) in order to progress in their gait circle. Conclusions. Ten months following treatment with circular ilizarov frame for pilon fracture the patients still have impaired gait pattern. The differences can be explained by the lack of plantar flexion of the ankle which results to poorer push-off of the affected limb

Abstract. The specific methods of skeletal reconstruction of massive bone loss remains a topic of controversy. The problem increased in case of massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants. Aim of the work. We evaluate the use of fibula in association of Ilizarov external fixator in management of massive post traumatic bone loss of tibial shaft. Materials and methods. Between December 1999 and 2004, we treated 8 adult patients with bone loss 10 cm and more. The indication was massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants. Whole fibula was used in 6 conditions and partial fibula in 2. The average age was 30.5 years (range: 25:51). The fibulas were prepared for transfer either as a whole or partially transfer. Ilizarov device was applied with a special construct for each condition accordingly. Free latismus dorsi was applied in 1 patient, and fasciocutanious flaps in 2. Four patients with whole fibula transfer continued to wear orthosis for outdoor activities. Results. The mean follow-up period was 40 months (range: 24:96) after healing. All fractures heeled between 8 and 24 months. Conclusion. We concluded that the Ilizarov external fixator is effective in management of management of massive post traumatic bone loss of tibial shaft. It provides advantages of compensation of bone defects, length, and early rehabilitation. It has the disadvantages of long healing time, long orthotic support. Its advantages are clear in case of massive bone loss, extensive soft tissue scar, vascular compromise, and short tibial remnants