Abstract

RESULTS OF TIBIAL LENGTHENING BY ILIZAROV TECHNIQUE

Dr. Venkata Kiran Pillella and * Dr. Lionel John

Abstract

Tibial lengthening using Ilizarov technique was performed in 20 patients (12 females and 8 males) aged 12-35 years (mean 19 years) with a mean follow up of 3 years (2-4 years). The etiology of the shortening was post-infective in 9 patients, post-traumatic in 7, post polio residual Palsy in 3, and congenital pseudarthosis of tibia in one patient. All except one patient achieved the desired length ranging from 3 to 8cm (mean 5.3cm). The average healing index was 5.7 weeks per cm and ranged from 5 weeks/cm to 7.2 weeks/cm. All patients improved their gait pattern. Pin tract infection was the commonest problem and equinus was the commonest obstacle to lengthening. The results were rated as excellent in 12 and good in 7. The Ilizarov technique for limb lengthening is safe and very effective.

Keywords: Limb lengthening- Tibial lengthening- Ilizarov Technique.