Ilizarov Surgery
The Ilizarov method is a surgery involving an orthopedic external fixator applied to the limb to reconstruct, reshape or lengthen bones (usually of the limb). External fixation is a surgical treatment where rods are screwed through an incision into the affected bone and exit the body to be attached to a stabilizing structure outside of the body. Ilizarov surgery involves the use of a special device called an ‘Ilizarov apparatus or Ilizarov fixator’. It is recommended in cases that are not amenable to other reconstruction techniques.
The procedure involves gradually pulling the bones apart (distraction). It uses the body’s natural ability to generate and grow new bone between the surfaces that are pulled apart. This bony growth fills up the gap in a gradual, controlled manner with the help of the Ilizarov fixator. The length of Ilizarov surgery mainly depends on the type of bone your surgeon is treating as well as the extent of the treatment. The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and typically involves two stages:
- Traditional osteotomy – making a break through the bone
- Corticotomy – cutting through the outer layer (cortex) of the bone
What are the treatment options for Ilizarov Surgery?
During the surgery,
- The affected bone is drilled surgically and a break is made
- Kirschner wires are percutaneously passed into the bone via the skin
- The wires are then guided out the opposite side of the bone
- The protruding ends of the wires are attached to metal rings
- The rings are connected and fixed to one another by threaded rods
- The wires are then held under tension to enhance stability
- Subsequently, corticotomy is performed by cutting the cortex of the bone
- Surgery is closed by making necessary adjustments in the rods between the rings
Osteogenesis occurs in the gap as the distraction continues. Once the distraction is over, the frame allows the new bone to harden. As soon as healing is complete, which may take between 3 to 12 months, the Ilizarov fixator is removed under general anesthesia.
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