The Gradual and Acute Correction of Equinus Using External Fixation

Abstract

Equinus is one of the most common deformities noted in foot and ankle biomechanics that, at times, if not identified and managed properly may lead to significant lower extremity pathology. With that being said, this deformity is also one that may be both underdiagnosed and undertreated. Treatment for equinus can range from conservative therapy to more aggressive surgical therapy. The purpose of this article is to review the clinical workup to properly identify the deformity and to explore the various treatment options for its timely management, which include gradual or acute correction of equinus using external fixation.

Keywords: Acute correction; Buttress frame; Equinus; External fixation; Gradual correction; Hexapod; Ilizarov.