Abstract

• PURPOSE: To analyze the clinical results and complications of the Ilizarov technique in the treatment of the tibial nonunion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven patients who had infected nonunion of the tibia were managed with Ilizarov external fixator form January 1992 to January 1997. Types of nonunion were classified according to Paley and status of infection were divided into AO classification. We evaluated clinical outcomes and complications which were assessed with rating system of Paley. RESULTS: All cases obtained bony union. The mean time to union was 11.5 months. On average, healing index was 51.4 days/cm(range 28-72 days/cm) and percentage of increment was 18.5 %(range, 13-31.5 %). According to Paley criteria, bone results were good to excellent in 22 cases(81.5 %), and functional results were good to excellent in 24 cases(88.9 %). Total thirty five complications were occurred, which were classified by Paley criteria, problems in 15 cases, obstacles in 17 cases, and complication in 3 case. CONCLUSION: Ilizarov technique is a useful method in management of the tibial nonunion, but we have to consider the complications and endeavor to reduce them.
• Key words: Tibia, Nonunion, Ilizarov external fixator

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