Correction of juxtaarticular deformities in children using the Ilizarov apparatus

Background Deformity correction using external fixation was performed for various disorders in children. We reviewed 18 children who underwent juxtaarticular deformity correction using the Ilizarov apparatus with either a transverse or focal dome osteotomy. The amount of deformity correction, external fixation time, external fixation index, length gained, and incidence of complications were examined. Methods. A series of 27 operations were performed in lower limb segments on 10 femurs and 17 tibias in 10 boys and 8 girls. The mean age at operation was 12 years (5-18 years). Deformity corrections were performed using a transverse osteotomy in 16 segments and a focal dome osteotomy in 11. Results. The average deformity corrected was 19 degrees (6 degrees-31 degrees). Acute correction was done in 14 segments and gradual correction in 13 segments. The mean lengthening was 4.2 cm in 12 segments (2-8cm). The mean external fixation time was 161 days (78-352 days). In acute corrections, the external fixation time with a focal dome osteotomy (101 days) tended to be shorter than with a transverse osteotomy (142 days). Conclusions. Accurate limb alignment was obtained for all cases. A focal dome osteotomy by maximizing the area of bony contact was more effective than a transverse osteotomy for acute deformity correction.