Ilizarov / Ring Fixator
A circular external frame connected to the bone through tensioned wires provides precise, adjustable fixation for the most complex fractures, significant bone loss, established non-unions, and progressive deformity correction.
What is Ilizarov / Ring Fixator?
The Ilizarov ring fixator is a modular circular frame system where rings attached around the limb are connected to the bone through fine tensioned wires and half-pins. Threaded connecting rods between rings can be adjusted incrementally — compressing a non-union site, distracting bone segments to fill a defect, or gradually correcting angular and rotational deformity. The underlying principle is distraction osteogenesis — the stimulation of new bone formation by slowly separating bone segments at a controlled rate. Dr. Sai Kishan applies ring fixator principles at Lux Hospitals for the most demanding fracture and deformity presentations that standard implants cannot address.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative Computer Planning
Detailed X-ray analysis and deformity planning software determine the precise frame configuration, wire positions, and the daily adjustment programme.
Wire & Half-Pin Insertion
Under general or spinal anaesthesia, fine wires and half-pins are inserted through safe surgical corridors in the bone at planned levels under fluoroscopy.
Ring Frame Assembly
Rings are applied around the limb and connected to the wires; rods and hinges are assembled according to the pre-operative configuration plan.
Corticotomy (if required)
For bone transport or lengthening, a minimally invasive bone division is performed at the planned level through a small separate incision.
Daily Adjustment Programme
The patient or treating nurse adjusts connecting rod increments daily according to the prescribed protocol — achieving the planned correction progressively over weeks to months.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Uniquely capable of treating complex fractures, non-unions, and bone defects simultaneously
- →Bone transport can fill large bone gaps without conventional bone grafting
- →Weight-bearing through the affected limb is generally possible while the frame is in place
- →Multi-planar deformity correction achievable with millimetre-level precision
- →Preserves the biological healing environment through minimally invasive bone access
- →Applicable in infected bone where internal implants would be contraindicated
The Ilizarov principle revealed something extraordinary — given the right stimulus, the human body can generate new bone on demand. The ring fixator is the mechanical instrument that makes that biological phenomenon clinically useful.
— — Dr. Sai Kishan Sirasala, Knee and Hip Joint Replacement & Robotic Surgery
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Sai Kishan and get a personalised treatment plan.