Re: ILIZAROVE TECHNOLOGY

Re: ILIZAROVE TECHNOLOGY

Hekman, E.E.G. (CTW)

12/4/2002

Hi all,

As a short note with respect to the Illizarov-technique:
As most of you will be aware of, the Illizarov technique is meant for
lengthening bones (congenital short bones, bones shortened upon comminuted
fracture) or for transporting healthy bone segments to bridge a bone gap
(tumor resection, high velocity impact). The original Illizarov fixator
consists of a number of interconnected rings. Also, many unilateral fixators
exists, which can be placed alongside the limb and facilitate mobility and
wearing of (almost) regular clothes.

Historically, the method was developed by the russion dr. Illizarov, was
adapted by Italian surgeons and since then has spread in the rest of the
western world. There is an inernational society, the Association for the
Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov International and External
Fixation (ASAMI), with obvious goals. Information can be found at
<URL Redacted>

The method is based on the observation by dr. Illizarov that callus, which
forms after a few days in a fracture or in the space between separated bone
sections, can be distracted without breaking it, at an optimal rate of
approx. 1 mm per day. Max. lengthening in one treatment session is approx. 5
cm (2), max. bone deficit which can be filled by segment transport is
approx. 10 cm. Treatment of e.g. a congenitally 50 mm bone shortage, at the
optimal rate, will take 50 days plus the time needed until weight bearing is
allowed. Some treatments may therefore last more than one year.

There is by no means a guarantee of any kind, esp. not of recovery in a very
short period. The method requires good patient compliance (e.g.wound
cleaning) and emotional stability. And, as one of the possible side effects
of leg lengthening may be joint contractions, a person treated with the
Illizarov-method may need a brace after all.

It seems to me that for the majority of those who visit an O&P-pro the
Illizarov method is not a treatment option.

Regards,

Edsko Hekman


> -----Original Message-----
> From: Orthotics and Prosthetics List [mailto:<Email Address Redacted>] On
> Behalf Of S.S Prosthetist Orthotist
> Sent: Friday, November 29, 2002 1:15 PM
> To: <Email Address Redacted>
> Subject: [OANDP-L] ILIZAROVE TECHNOLOGY
>
> Dear Memebers
>
> snip .............
>
> My question is ,if this method of treatment is perfect for
> all kinds of
> physical disability ,fractures,congenital deformities, if there is
> guarantee of recovery in a very short period then what is the need of
> orthosis and orthotist.???
>
> BEST REGARDS
>
> LIFE

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