Tibial Lengthening using the classic Ilizarov Technique

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the results of tibial lengthening using the classic Ilizarov technique.Method: A retrospective study was performed between June 2005 and August 2009 on six patients who underwent tibial lengthening using the Ilizarov distraction technique.Results: Of the six patients, four were males and two were females. Mean age was 17 years (range 8 � 43 years). Mean tibial length gain was 4.9cm (range 3 � 9cm). Mean time in the frame was 9 months (range 7 � 11 months). The complications were: six superficial pin tract infections, four axial deviations, two residual leg length discrepancies, on delayed union, and one equinus contracture.Conclusion: Tibial lengthening can be successfully achieved by the conventional Ilizarov technique. However, this method is time-consuming, and is associated with many complications.