Ilizarov technique as a reliable option in limb salvage surgery

Abstract

Dear Editor,We read the original paper “Osteocutaneous thermalnecrosis of the leg salvaged by TSF/Ilizarov reconstruction.Report of 7 patients” with great attention [1]. The articlereports on a complication of reamed intramedullary fixationof the tibia and a solution to the problem using the Ilizarovmethod. The authors rightfully consider the Ilizarovtechnique a method of choice in severe limb salvagesituations. There is abundant experience in application ofthe Ilizarov technique in the treatment of infected defectpseudoarthrosis, and this paper further expands indicationsfor its use.Our own experience with the Ilizarov technique insituations where other treatment methods could not beapplied or had failed to provide expected outcome, is verypositive [2–4]. The technique is tissue sparing and producessignificant regenerative and stimulative effects. Therefore,it can be successfuly and simply applied in cases ofinfection, bony and soft-tissue defects, and in multiplecomorbidity situations. Its drawbacks are minimal com-pared with its advantages and possibilities. Even in themost complex limb salvage procedures following injury ordisease, the Ilizarov technique shows great impact onhealing of bony and soft-tissue defects, bone union, andcorrection of deformity.