A technique for correction of equinus contracture using a wire fixator and elastic tension

J Orthop Trauma. 2006 Feb;20(2):138-42. doi: 10.1097/01.bot.0000184148.19067.77.

Abstract

Equinus contracture often is a complication of trauma, burns, or neurologic deficit. Many patients with contractures secondary to trauma or burns have poor soft tissue, which makes invasive correction a less appealing option. The Ilizarov external fixator has been used as a less invasive attempt to correct equinus contracture. We describe our "dynamic" technique and present a clinical patient series using a variation of the unconstrained Ilizarov technique, which uses elastic bands rather than threaded rods to supply the corrective force.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Wires
  • Equinus Deformity / etiology
  • Equinus Deformity / surgery*
  • External Fixators
  • Foot Injuries / complications*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthopedic Procedures / instrumentation*
  • Range of Motion, Articular