Correction of Leg-Length Discrepancies by Ilizarov Technique

Abstract

The management of leg-length discrepancies is one of the most challenging problems that the surgeon confronts in his daily practice. We are presenting here the use of Ilizarov apparatus-external ring device in a series of 86 patients for the limb lengthening. 66 patients are male & 20 female; the patients are 17 post polio shortening; 25 post-traumatic shortening; 5 gun short shortening; 10 congenital pseudoathrotic shortening, 24 congenital idiopathic shortening, shortening due to osteomyelitis-5. Among the complications 9 pin track infections were observed from which all responded positively to local care. Among the 86 patients, 3 admitted with the gun shot injury with 13 cm shortening, 39 admitted with the shortening of 7 cm, 18 with 5 cm & 26 with 3.5 cm. Lengthening & sound union was achieved according to Ilizarov’s technique. The Ilizarov apparatus & technique represents a useful method for the successful lengthening of the limbs.