Clinical outcome of the ilizarov fixator combined with telescopic rod technique to reverse anterior subluxation of the talus during the correction of equinocavovarus deformity

Abstract

The effectiveness of the Ilizarov technique combined with telescopic rod technique in the treatment of equinocavovarus foot deformities in adults was undefined. All 72 adult patients (76 feet) who underwent the Ilizarov technique combined with telescopic rod technique for correction of equinovarus foot deformities between February 2012 and May 2022 were included. Clinical outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at the last follow-up by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hind foot score, and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire. The radiographic outcomes were measured on weight-bearing ankle and foot radiographs taken preoperatively and at the last follow-up. The postoperative VAS and AOFAS ankle-hind foot scores significantly improved compared to the preoperative (P < 0.0001 for each). The postoperative SF-36 scores significantly increased referring to physical function, role-physical, body pain, general health, vitality, social function, role-emotional, mental health, and health transition (P < 0.0001 for each). Early complications were found in 20 feet (27 %) and late complications were found in 8 feet (10.8 %). In addition, the postoperative tibio-talar angle, tibial-sole angle, talus-first metatarsal angle, talo-calcaneal angle and hindfoot alignment view angle significantly improved compared to the preoperative. Sixty-three (87.5 %) patients were satisfied with the treatment effect. The Ilizarov technique combined with telescopic rod technique is an effective and reliable method in correcting equinocavovarus foot deformity, with high satisfaction and few complications.