Ilizarov hip reconstruction osteotomy – A review

Hip joint instability can be secondary to congenital hip pathologies like developmental dysplasia (DDH) or acquired such as sequel of infective or neoplastic process. An unstable hip is usually associated with loss of bone from the proximal femur, shortening, abnormal gait, and pain. Many authors have suggested proximal femoral valgus osteotomy for the treatment of unstable hip joints. Ilizarov modified this technique and performed a double-level osteotomy. In addition to proximal femoral valgus extension osteotomy, he introduced a distal femoral varus osteotomy which would lead to limb lengthening and correction of mechanical axis of the leg. This effectively reduces the limp, improves the abductor lurch and leg length, and provides stability to the destroyed joint.