A clinical retrospective study of surgical treatment of chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis by the Ilizarov method was conducted by analysing the end results. The included cases were patients with chronic osteomyelitis who underwent surgery. The average length of bone defect was 9.5 cm (4-28 cm). In all cases corticotomy and application of the Ilizarov device was necessary to initiate bone transport. Thirteen patients (62 %) presented delayed union at the docking site. In 4 patients compression-distraction was necessary to promote union. In 9 patients (43 %) the Ilizarov device was removed and interlocked intramedullary nailing was performed after eradication of the infection was confirmed by clinical and laboratory data. Recurrence of infection occurred in one patient. Elimination of infection and solid bone formation was the end result for all patients. Two refractures at the docking site needed reapplication of an Ilizarov device. In one case angular deformity of more than 10 degrees needed correctional osteotomy.
Chronic Osteomyelitis - Ilizarov method - complications secondary intramedullary nailing
