Segmental bone loss can be treated by two Ilizarov´s methods: bone transportation, or acute bone shortening followed by lengthening. The latter method is simpler than the first, but complications may occur. The aim of this study was to treat a large segmental defect of the tibia by shortening bone followed by lengthening. Seven female, crossbreed dogs, an average of 1.5 to 4.5 years old, and weighing 10 to 17.5 kg, were used. The Ilizarov frame was assembled with one proximal half-ring, one middle ring, one distal ring, and three rods. 30% of the tibia and fibula in the middle and distal parts of the diaphysis were resected. Acute bone shortening with compression of proximal and distal segments was performed. A subperiosteal osteotomy was performed between the half-ring and middle ring. Bone distraction started seven days after surgery (0.5 mm every 12 hours). One month following frame removal, the result was considered excellent in 2, good in 3 and fair in 2. Bone regeneration within the distraction gap was obtained 14 weeks after the neutral fixation period. It was possible to conclude that acute shortening is one method that can be used to treat extensive tibial defects.

Financial support: Fapesp, Fundunesp.