"Ilizarov" external fixation: what the radiologist needs to know.

Circular external fixation, including the Ilizarov method, is a complex and often long-term treatment used for various orthopedic conditions. Due to the complexity of the hardware, frequent postoperative complications, and the potential for significant radiographic changes between visits, it is important for the radiologist to have a basic understanding of ring fixators. This publication reviews indications for external fixation versus internal fixation and whether to use a circular or uniplanar construct if external fixation is elected. Indications for and characteristics of static circular frames, intercalary and non-intercalary transport frames, and deformity circular frames will also be discussed. While general similarities exist between frame types, each has unique components of which the radiologist must be aware. An emphasis is placed on the important features and complications that arise during treatment.