Re-application of External Fixators for Complications of Limb Lengthening and Deformity Correction / 中国矫形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective: To treat limb length discrepancy or deformity using external fixation,and Correct potential complications. The authors present their figures for reapplication of external fixator frames in the same bone segment following complications during or after the treatment phase. Methods: Two hundred and sixty-one patients (297 limbs) underwent this type of treatment in our unit between Feb. 1991 and July 1999 with either Orthofix or Ilizarov fixators.228 in children and 69 limb segments in adults. Results: Reapplication of 22 fixators in children (9.65%), and 4 fixators in adults (5.8%) was performed. This gives an overall reapplication rate of 8.75%. The reason for reapplication was fracture and / or deformity of the regenerate (15 segments). Four patients eventually came to amputation. Conclusion: The authors recommended the continue use of this technique for the treatment of severe deformity particularly in congenital disorders.