Fibular hemimelia: a preliminary report on management of the severe abnormality.

The introduction of Ilizarov leg lengthening techniques has allowed a change in philosophy in treatment of fibular hemimelia. Between January 1990 and October 1993, eight patients with 10 involved extremities underwent correction of severe grades of fibular hemimelia by the Ilizarov technique. Mean follow-up from operation was 26.7 months. Because the lengthening desired was achieved in all cases, this form of treatment is an attractive alternative to the more traditional Syme's amputation. However, complications are common. Frequency and severity of complications apparently is less in younger patients who require less extensive, staged lengthening.