Abstract
Objective To evaluate the quality of life of patients using an Ilizarov type external fixator
for the treatment of complicated fractures and their sequelae.
Method This is an observational and cross-sectional study, in which the 36-item short form
survey (SF-36) questionnaire (translated into Portuguese) was applied during outpatient
consultations in 2 periods, in the months of July 2018 and January 2019. The patients
who participated in the study underwent their surgical procedures between January
and June 2018.
Results We evaluated 36 patients using an external Ilizarov fixator. We observed a predominance
of male patients, with a mean age of 37.9 years. Fractures of leg bones and their
complications represented half of the sample. Improvement in functional capacity and
emotional aspects of the patients was observed throughout the treatment.
Conclusion The use of the circular external fixator is an important and effective method for
the surgical treatment of complex fractures and their sequelae. This study allowed
us to conclude that, after treatment, patients achieved functional return to daily
activities with adequate quality of life.
Keywords
quality of life - Ilizarov technique - external fixators - bone lengthening - fractures,
bones - pseudoarthrosis
