International recognition of the Ilizarov bone reconstruction techniques: Current practice and research (dedicated to 100^thbirthday of G. A. Ilizarov)

Abstract

The Ilizarov method is one of the current methods used in bone reconstruction. It originated in the middle of the past century and comprises a number of bone reconstruction techniques executed with a ring external fixator developed by Ilizarov GA. Its main merits are viable new bone formation through distraction osteogenesis, high union rates and functional use of the limb throughout the course of treatment. The study of the phenomenon of distraction osteogenesis induced by tension stress with the Ilizarov apparatus was the impetus for advancement in bone reconstruction surgery. Since then, the original method has been used along with a number of its modifications developed due to emergence of new fixation devices and techniques of their application such as hexapod external fixators and motorized intramedullary lengthening nails. They gave rise to a relatively new orthopedic subspecialty termed “limb lengthening and reconstruction surgery”. Based on a comprehensive literature search, we summarized the recent clinical practice and research in bone reconstruction by the Ilizarov method with a special focus on its modification and recognition by the world orthopedic community. The international influence of the Ilizarov method was reviewed in regard to the origin country of the authors and journal’s rating. The Ilizarov method and other techniques based on distraction osteogenesis have been used in many countries and on all populated continents. It proves its international significance and confirms the greatest contribution of Ilizarov GA to bone reconstruction surgery.

Early Pixel Value Ratios to Assess Bone Healing During Distraction Osteogenesis

“…Generally speaking, the regeneration system in living tissue is activated under a physiological continuous, stable, and slow distraction force: the bone and its attached muscles, fascia, blood vessels, and nerve tissue grow synchronously. This technique is utilized to treat severely damaged limb tissues and complicated orthopedic disorders ( Malkova and Borzunov, 2021 ). Basically, DO is an effective treatment for significant bone defects, limb shortening, bone non-union, limb deformities, and neurovascular skin injuries ( Shchudlo et al, 2017 ).…”

Bone Tissue Engineering in the Treatment of Bone Defects

“…Ilizarov technique was proposed and named after a former soviet doctor in 1951 [ 16 ]. The core biomechanical theory of this technique is the “law of tension stress” (LTS), which states that continuous slow traction stimulation can promote tissue regeneration and active growth of biological tissue similar to embryonic tissue [ 17 ]. This rule is referred to as distraction osteogenesis (DO) in orthopedics, which Dr. Ilizarov first described in a canine model.…”

The progress in quantitative evaluation of callus during distraction osteogenesis

“…Under a physiological stress force, bone and its attached muscles, fascia, blood vessels and nerves will also grow synchronously. This technique could repair and reconstruct severely damaged limb tissues through self-repair and regeneration and treat complex orthopedic disorders (challenging to treat by traditional orthopedic techniques) [ 2 ]. DO is an effective and decent treatment for significant bone defects, limb shortening, bone nonunion, severe limb deformities, and severe neurovascular skin injuries [ 3 ].…”