Does Ilizarov apparatus hurt?

Having Ilizarov frame surgery can be painful. Some people require morphine-based medication for the first 24 to 48 hours. There are various ways that this can be given and the anaesthetist will prescribe your initial post-operative painkillers.

How long do you have to wear Ilizarov apparatus?

The length of time you will need to wear your frame will likely be a minimum of 3 months. But in most cases patients must wear their frames for 6-12 months. You should discuss any return to work with your consultant.

How does the Ilizarov frame work?

An Ilizarov external fixator (Ilizarov frame) is a ring-like brace (see figure 1). The frame is applied to the outside of the limb and connected through the unbroken part of the bone inside the limb. This is done by using a number of tensioned wires sometimes called pins.

How do you shower with an Ilizarov frame?

Shower your frame thoroughly but gently. You may use a mild, non-perfumed soap on your limb. 4. Dry your frame and the limb thoroughly with a freshly washed, dry towel (do not use the same one that you use to dry the rest of your body).

How much does an Ilizarov cost?

The total cost of the Ilizarov limb reconstruction averaged $59,213.71. The hospital costs and professional fees for the amputation group averaged $30,148.02 without prosthetic costs, but with the projected lifetime prosthetic costs included, averaged $403,199.18.

Where is Ilizarov apparatus used?

The Ilizarov apparatus is a type of external fixation used in orthopedic surgery to lengthen or reshape limb bones; as a limb-sparing technique to treat complex and/or open bone fractures; and in cases of infected nonunions of bones that are not amenable with other techniques.

How painful is an external fixator?

Results The average pain prior to fixator removal was of 3.61. Shortly after the procedure, the patients reported that, on average, the most intense pain scored 6.68, and the least intense pain, 2.25 points. The average pain variation was of 4.43 points, and pain after 1 week scored, on average, 2.03 points.

Can you shower with external fixator?

Showers with the external fixator As long as there are no open wounds and your surgeon allows it, you can shower with the TAYLOR SPATIAL FRAME device in place. You may consider placing a rubber mat in the tub or utilizing a shower chair or installing handrails in your shower for safety.

Can you lift a leg by the external fixator?

It is safe and generally well-tolerated to lift from the external fixator rings when assisting patient in moving leg.