Multidisciplinary team approach to residual limb lengthening using the Ilizarov technique: A case study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: A 47-year-old male suffered a traumatic transtibial amputation; initial limb use was unsuccessful and the short tibial length was thought to be the cause of failure.

CASE DESCRIPTION AND

METHODS

The patient underwent gradual tibia lengthening using the Ilizarov technique and utilised a weight-bearing prosthesis to expedite bone growth and repair.

FINDINGS AND OUTCOMES: The patient is now able to use his prosthesis successfully without aids.

CONCLUSION

This case study demonstrates that combining a scientifically based surgical technique with a tailored rehabilitation approach had an improved outcome for the patient.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study reports one case where tibial lengthening using the Ilizarov technique combined with a collaborative team approach has enabled a patient to return to successful prosthetic limb use.