Correction of shortening and/or angular deformities by distraction osteogenesis using AO-tubular fixator.

Eighteen patients (20 bony segments) who had shortening and/or angular deformities were treated by distraction osteogenesis using AO-tubular external fixator. The mean angular correction was 18.9 degrees (range, 8-40 degrees). Of the group in whom shortening and angulation was corrected, the mean length gained was 4.2 cm (3-6 cm). The mean treatment time was 4.9 months (range, 2-13 months) and the mean follow-up was 12 months after removal of the fixator (range, 3-30 months). Delayed union with loosening of the fixator occurred in one patient which resulted in residual shortening of 1.5 cm. The author's technique of distraction osteogenesis using AO-tubular fixator with the new distraction rate of 1 mm/48 h (1 mm/step) could adequately correct shortening and/or angular deformities. No extra equipment was needed other than the readily-available AO-tubular fixation systems. No serious complications such as neurovascular injury were encountered.