Nonunion: Ankle Case

Presenting

This 32 year old woman was referred in  6 weeks after an ankle fracture following treatment with casting at an outside facility by other physicians. At the time of referral, both bones of the lower leg were fractured and displaced with no signs of healing and the ankle joint was dislocated and unstable. The patient was confined to a wheelchair.

Treatment in Progress

These x-rays shows treatment in progress using Ilizarov deformity correction to realign the ankle joint.

Result After Treatment by Dr. Brinker

These images taken after Ilizarov treatment and plate stabilization show that the bones are healed and ankle alignment is restored. The patient has no pain and can participate in all of her usual activities without assistance.

Presenting

This 41 year old man who was referred to see Dr. Brinker 6 months after an attempted ankle fusion at an outside facility by other physicians for post-traumatic arthritis. At the time of referral, the ankle joint was grossly unstable. The patient was unable to walk without a supportive boot and a cane, was having severe pain, and was having difficulty doing his work as an emergency room physician.

Treatment in Progress

These x-rays show treatment in progress after removal of bone and tissue at the nonunion site. Treatment consists of Ilizarov bone transport and compression to move a segment of bone downward to obtain fusion of the ankle joint.

Result After Treatment by Dr. Brinker

These images taken after Ilizarov treatment show that the bones are healed and the ankle is fused. The patient has no pain and can walk and attend to his work as a physician without requiring supportive footwear or a cane.