Reconstructive: The Ilizarov Method & Circular Fixation
Course Details
Date: Aug 30, 2026. 7:30 am
Location: Skill Lab, Al Najaf Teaching Hospital
Course Goals
The goal of this course is to master the versatility of the circular external fixator. We focus on the "Biology of the Gap," teaching surgeons how to harness the body's natural regenerative power and transport bone segments to bridge massive defects.
Target Participants
- Senior Orthopedic Residents.
- Limb Reconstruction Fellows.
- Consultant Surgeons managing complex trauma and infected non-unions.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the Tension-Stress Effect: Explain how slow, steady distraction stimulates the growth of bone, skin, nerves, and muscle.
- Master Frame Assembly: Build a basic two-ring or four-ring construct, including the proper placement of rings, threaded rods, and hinges.
- Execute Safe Wire Placement: Identify the "Cross-sectional Anatomy" of the limb to insert Transfixion (K-wires) and Half-pins without damaging neurovascular structures.
Course Highlights
- The "Wire Tensioning" Lab: Hands-on workshop using a dynamometric tensioner to achieve the 90–130 kg of tension required for frame stability.
- Bone Transport Simulation: A practical session on moving a segment of bone across a simulated defect on a sawbones model.
- Hinge Placement Workshop: Learning to calculate and place hinges to correct complex multi-planar deformities.