Ilizarov treatment of pilon fractures

The authors retrospectively reviewed 13 pilon fractures in 12 patients treated with a diaphyseal-epiphyseal technique of Ilizarov external fixation. Clinical followup averaged 16 months (range, 12-25 months). Eighty-four percent of the fractures had healed within 16 weeks after surgery. Average range of motion of the ankle was 12° dorsiflexion and 25° plantar flexion. One delayed union was treated with bone grafting and eventually healed ; 1 nonunion was treated with ankle arthrodesis. Most patients (91%) experienced mild or no pain. There were no deep infections. This technique is an effective treatment option for tibial pilon fractures.