Correction of Lower Limb Deformities Using Ilizarov's Technique.

BACKGROUND

India accounts for approximately 10 million orthopaedically handicapped children and adults with limb deformity. Ilizarov ring fixator could treat most of these deformities.

METHODS

Twenty cases of deformities of lower limb managed with Ilizarov technique during period between March 2001 and February 2003 were studied.

RESULTS

55% were in the age group of 11-30 years. Out of the 20 cases studied, 6 were congenital talipes equino varus, 8 were fixed flexion deformity of knee, 4 were equines deformity of the ankle and 2 were malunited fracture shaft of tibia.4 patients who had recurrence were operated for fixed flexion deformity of the knee. The main complication encountered was pin tract infection, which was seen in 15(75%) cases. In 16(80%) cases, the results were excellent with no recurrence of deformity and patients were able to walk independently. In 4 (20%) cases, recurrence was mild to moderate (10 to 20) but all of them were able to ambulate idependently and carry out their routine activities.

CONCLUSION

Ilizarov ring fixator is a superior compared to conventional methods for correction of deformities of lower limb.