Correction of complex foot deformities by ilizarov external fixator

ABSTRACT

Complex foot deformity is defined as foot with multiplanar deformities with or without shortening. It can be corrected either by the conventional techniques with some complications or by Ilizariv external fixator which enables correction in all three orthogonal planes at a rate of which may be tailored to the type and degree of the deformity. 13 feet in 12 patients suffering from complex foot deformities were treated by Ilizarov method. The etiologic factors were burn contractures [one foot], poliomyelitis [three feet], one of which with leg-length discrepancy, neglected and relapsed club feet [7 feet], trauma [two feet] and leg-length discrepancy. These patients were 9 males and 4 females, average age of these patients was 16 [10-40] years the duration of fixator application was 6 [3-15] months. Corrections without an osteotomy in five feet were performed and with osteotomy in eight feet. Additional bony corrective procedure included one tibial osteomtomy in only case of leg-length discrepancy for lengthening and deformity correction and one tibiotalar arthrodesis. Types of deformity were Pesequinovarus [8 feet], equinus [3 feet] and Pesplanovalgus [2 feet]. The evaluation of the results depended on [degree of correction, improvement of walking and opinion of patients or patient's parents] so there were 9 excellent [69.2%], 2 good [15.4%] and 2 poor [15.4%]. The follow-up period was 28 [12-40] months. The Ilizarov external fixator for correction of complex foot deformity is successful and advantageous method but to some extent is difficult and lengthy