Ankle distraction arthroplasty using the Ilizarov external fixation and arthroscopy: first clinical experience

We report a clinical case of a 27-year-old patient with posttraumatic painful ankle arthritis following sport injury treated with combined methods. The patient underwent ankle distraction arthroplasty with original Ilizarov apparatus and arthroscopic diagnosis and treatment of the ankle injury followed by the joint unloading and exercise therapy with frame on performed for 6 weeks at the Kurgan Ilizarov Center. The patient could improve pain relief and function at a long term following comprehensive treatment including surgical intervention, a course of physical procedures and exercise therapy. The combined technique can be used as an alternative treatment for patients with posttraumatic ankle arthritis.