Abstract
Aim: To study a staged technique for the removal of the Ilizarov fixator following bony union.
Method: A prospective case series of all fractures treated by the senior author between May 2005 and May 2007 were reviewed. When patients were able to weight bear pain free with radiological evidence of healing, the frames were dynamised initially by loosening the rods across the fracture site, then by removing all rods across the fracture site and finally the frame was removed under general anaesthetic. Patients were followed up for 6 months clinically and radiologically.
Results: Of 39 fractures (38 patients) 37 underwent staged dynamisation. No patients required further, casting, bracing or walking aids after frame removal. There were no incidences of re-fracture, non-union or late mal-union at 6 months follow up.
Conclusion: The proposed method of staged dynamisation is a safe and useful technique for confirming fracture union and guiding frame removal
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Matt Costa and Mr Ben Ollivere. Correspondence should be addressed to Mr Costa at Clinical Sciences Research Institute, University of Warwick, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK.
