Preventing and overcoming equinus contractures during lengthening of the tibia.

Abstract

The new technique of leg lengthening and deformity correction with different types of external fixators has given the orthopedic surgeon a tool that allows correction of very difficult deformities and leg length discrepancies of the lower extremity. Dissemination of this knowledge has demonstrated that there are many associated problems with these techniques: one of which is resulting equinus deformity after correcting the tibia. The shortened soleus-gastrocnemius-achilles tendon complex is the cause of this deformity. Several techniques are suggested on avoiding this complication and how to correct it once it has occurred.