Ipsilateral fibular transport with an Ilizarov frame for treatment of massive tibial bone loss

Abstract

Objective To explore the therapeutic effects of ipsilateral fibular transport with an Ilizarov frame for treatment of massive tibial bone loss. Methods From April 2004 to October 2009, 4 cases of massive tibial bone loss were treated with an Ilizarov frame and ipsilateral fibular transport. They were 3 men and one woman, aged from 14 to 62 years (average, 27 years). Their tibial losses ranged from 13 to 25 cm. The whole tibia was first fixed with an external Ilizarov ring frame. Osteotomy was then performed at both distal and proximal parts of the fibula, before the isolated fibula was fixed to the Ilizarov frame with 2 olive wires. Next, the isolated fibula was gradually distracted to the site of tibial bone loss at a speed of one mm per day. Bone grafts were transplanted where and when the isolated fibula touched the tibia at last. Results The 4 patients were followed up for an average duration of 34. 6 months (range, 12 to 60 months). The external fixation time ranged from 12 to 26 months, (average, 19 months). Two patients had superficial pin site infection during fibular transport and healed spontaneously after removal of the pins. All the wounds were completely healed and no wound infection recurred. No nerve injury occurred during the fibular distraction.After full-weight bearing exercise, the isolated fibula became thicker gradually and no refracture happened.All patients regained good walking with full weight-bearing. Conclusion Gradual ipsilateral fibular transport with an Ilizarov frame is a reasonable and effective therapeutic method for patients with massive tibial bone loss. Key words: Tibia; Postoperative complications; External fixatiors; Bone loss; Fibula transport