If you had a choice, you would probably not wish to undergo Ilizarov treatment; it is a long and stressful treatment and requires considerable effort. If you have a major deformity, massive bone loss or complex bone infection, however, the other options are even less appealing. Large allografts have high rates of infection, non-union and late fracture, and metal implants are at risk of loosening and fatigue particularly in younger patients. Sometimes the only other option is an amputation. The Ilizarov method offers the ability to correct deformity and grow new, normal bone which will continue to serve its purpose for the rest of your life.