[The effectiveness of G. A. Ilizarov's method in treating patients with III- and IV-stage chronic ischemia of the lower extremities].

The method of treatment after Ilizarov was used in 28 patients with occlusion of lower extremity arteries, mainly of distal localization, with the III and IV degrees of ischemia. Osteotomy of mainly the tibial bone and distraction of the free osseous split was performed during 31-36 days. Two patients had fractures of the bone during operative interventions, after operation four patients had purulent complications or necrosis of the skin around the wire. The immediate positive result was noted in 20 patients. Their fate was followed-up in remote periods from 2 to 19 months, good results were observed in 18 patients. The use of the Ilizarov method was most justified in patients with the III and IV degrees of ischemia when other methods of treatment failed to give any effect and surgical reconstruction of the vessels is impossible. When treating patients with the IV degree, it is necessary to take into consideration the late appearance of revascularization and possibility of temporary deterioration. The use of the Ilizarov method foresees provision of the joint work of an angiosurgeon and a traumatologist-orthopedist.