The use of the Ilizarov technique in the correction of lower extremity deformities in children.

The first time the Ilizarov technique was used at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, 25 limb segments were treated in 15 patients. Thirteen segments (52%) required angular correction, 6 (24%) required lengthening, and 6 (24%) required both angular correction and lengthening. Average angular correction was 21 degrees (8 degrees to 41 degrees); average length gained was 44 mm (25 to 85 mm). All patients except two achieved preoperative goals. A total of 17 minor (.68/limb) and four major (.16/limb) complications occurred in the 25 limb segments in the study. The total complication rate was .84 complications per limb segment. The most common complication was pin tract infection (11 patients). This comprised 52% of complications and occurred in 44% of limb segments.