The “Ilizarov” technique is a new exciting concept for bone repair using a dynamic
external fixator. The apparatus has proved to be very useful and beneficial because
of the stability afforded the fracture site from three-dimensional fixation while
providing a mechanism for incremental spatial adjustment over time. The minimum invasion
of bone and soft tissue necessary assures minimal disruptance of osseous blood supply.
Small diameter pins (0.8–1.2 mm) make innumerable combinations of assembly possible.
The system can be used for repair of simple and comminuted fractures, nonunions and
osteomyelitis. It is truly unique in the versatility provided for repair of severe
bone malformation, especially when the surrounding soft tissue can not immediately
adjust to the desired change in bony alignment. It also has similar advantage when
used for bone lengthening.
Keywords
Ilizarov’s external fixator - malformation of bone
