Frequency of complications of bone transport technique using the ilizarov method in the lower extremity.

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the frequency of complications in patients treated with the Ilizarov bone transport technique for lower extremity reconstruction. Study Design: Prospective study. Setting: Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore. Period: October 25, 2024, to January 25, 2024. Methods: Including 75 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Patient demographics, injury characteristics, and complication details were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with chi-square tests for stratified comparisons. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Among the 75 patients (mean age 37.55±13.76 years), 64% were male, and 36% were female. The most common complication observed was pin tract infection, which occurred in 37.3% of patients. This was followed by joint stiffness in 21.3%, limb discrepancy in 17.3%, and malalignment in 12.0%. Refracture occurred in 4.0% of patients, while recurrent infection was not reported in any cases. Amputation was observed in 2.7% of patients. Age was significantly association with the rate of complications. Conclusion: For reconstructing the lower extremities, the Ilizarov bone transfer technique works well, although it has a significant risk of complications, especially pin-site infections. Preventive measures and careful observation are necessary to reduce these risks and enhance treatment results. Future research should concentrate on improving surgical methods and postoperative care to improve patient recovery.