Complications of ilizarov external fixator

Abstract

Introduction: Ilizarov external fixator is a versatile system, applicable in vast number of Orthopaedics cases which has its own advantages as well as associated complications. Present study was done with an aim to analyze and evaluate the complications in patients managed with ilizarov method.Materials and Methods: A total of 112 patients were enrolled in this study who were managed with Ilizarov technique for different indications. The complications were classified into two categories I (minor) and category II (major). Results were graded as excellent, good, fair and poor as per modified ASAMI (Association for the Study and Application of Methods of Ilizarov) classification based on radiological and clinical criteria.Results: In this study the complications encountered were pin tract infection in 41 (36.61%) patients, muscle contracture in 3 (2.68%) patients, joint stiffness in 17 (15.18%) patients, mal-union in 7 (6.25%) patients, non-union in 5 (4.46%) patients, 3 (2.68%) patients had RSD (reflex sympathetic dystrophy) which were treated with physiotherapy and 2 (1.79%) patients had bleeding from pin site which was managed conservatively.Conclusion: Complications of Ilizarov can be minimized by following standard Ilizarov principles. Pin tracts care must be done, motion exercises must be followed to reduce stiffness of joints.