[Mini-invasive distraction technique for treatment of severe ankle and foot deformities secondary to ischemic contracture of the leg].

This research is about the use of the Ilizarov mini-invasive distraction technique in treating serious foot and ankle deformities, which were a secondary outcome of ischemic leg contracture. The study highlighted this approach as safe, low-injury and an effective treatment for rigid, unusual foot conditions.

Introduction to the Research

• This study was aimed at investigating the effectiveness of a specific distraction technique, invented by Gavriil Ilizarov, for the management of severe ankle and foot deformities caused by ischemic contracture of the leg.
• Ischemic contracture develops as a result of a trauma or fracture that restricts the blood supply to the muscles of the leg. Over time, this lack of blood flow leads to the muscles tightening and contracting, resulting in deformities in the feet and ankles.

Methodology

• The researchers developed an external distraction device, based on Ilizarov’s principles of tension-stress, that could be adjusted in three dimensions.
• This device was used to treat eight patients, four of whom were male and four were female, aged between 13 and 31, who had developed foot and ankle deformities as a result of ischemic contracture of the leg.
• The patients had pre-existing conditions which included talipes equinus and equinovarus, and most patients had scar contractures on their legs.
• Following the operation to fit the distractor, the device was adjusted from 7 days post-operation and this adjustment period lasted from 29 to 60 days.

Results

• All patients were followed up for a period of between 10 to 29 months. The deformities in all patients’ feet were corrected satisfactorily, with all patients achieving full foot-ground contact when standing or walking.
• No complications, including pin tract infection, skin necrosis or neurovascular injury, were noted in this patient group.

Conclusion

• The study concluded that the Ilizarov mini-invasive distraction approach is a safe, minimally injuring and effective treatment method for severe ankle and foot deformities secondary to ischemic contracture of the leg.
• This method could potentially be useful for the treatment of various types of rigid foot abnormality.