Application of a constrained external fixator frame for treatment of a fixed equinus contracture.
Ankle equinus can result from congenital, traumatic, neurological, and pathological etiologies. Corrective methods have been described in the literature using a combination of soft tissue releases or osseous procedures with reported complications. We present a case report of a patient with a post-traumatic fixed equinus deformity of 28 degrees at maximum dorsiflexion, treated successfully through gradual correction using a modified constrained external fixator. The patient maintained a rectus foot and was able to perform all daily activities at the final follow-up. Fixed equinus deformities can be difficult to manage. Gradual correction with an external fixator is a reasonable treatment option.


METHODS
4.
Mendicino
Robert W
RW
Department of Surgery, The Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA. rmendicino@faiwp.com
Murphy
Lara J
LJ
Maskill
Michael P
MP
Catanzariti
Alan R
AR
Penny
Harry
H
D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000328:Adult; D004863:Equinus Deformity / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D004867:Equipment Design; D016267:External Fixators; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans