Severe radius shortening and deformity secondary to epiphyseal arrest corrected by Ilizarov fixator: a case report

Abstract

Authors discuss a case in which radius shorthening (about 55 mm) and the associated deformity (about 48 degrees), secondary to epiphyseal arrest, were particularly severe. The patient was treated by the Ilizarov fixator frame and the whole treatment lasted 229 days, from surgical operation to beginning of rehabilitation. An adequate clinical and radiographical correction was obtained. During the treatment the patient did not suffer from any major complications. The case presented shows how severe deformity and shortening of the radius secondary to epiphyseal arrest can be very adequately treated by using the Ilizarov frame but a careful technique and a prolonged outpatient treatment, with frequent clinical controls, are necessary.