Use of Ilizarov Device to Gain Early Range of Motion in the Treatment of Pediatric Talus Body Fractures: A Series of Four Cases and Literature Review

BACKGROUND: Talus fractures are rare in children but can lead to severe outcomes if untreated. The Ilizarov external fixator has been used in the treatment of a variety of lower extremity pathologies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical outcomes of talus body fractures treated with the Ilizarov external fixator. CASE PRESENTATION: Four male pediatric patients (age range, 5–11 years) with talus body fractures who were treated by open reduction and internal fixation combined with Ilizarov external fixator between November 2015 and April 2016 were reviewed. Mean follow‐up period was 4 years (range, 4–5). Clinical outcome was evaluated using the clinical rating scale of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). All four patients achieved good to excellent results at the last follow‐up. None of the patients developed avascular necrosis. One patient developed automatic fusion of tibiotalar joint. CONCLUSION: Use of the Ilizarov external fixator to gain early range of motion is a valuable option for treatment of talus body fractures in children.