DEU Orhosis: an orthotic method of preventing ankle equinus during tibial lengthening

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From Prosthet Orthot Int. 2003 Dec;27(3):238-41

Dokuz Eylül University (DEU) orthosis: an orthotic method of preventing ankle

equinus during tibial lengthening.

Angin S, Unver B, Karastosun V, Ciftci I.

School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Department of Orthotics and

Prosthetics, Dokuz Eylul University, Inciralti, Izmir, Turkey.

An orthosis developed in Dokuz Eylul University (DEU) at the School of Physical

Therapy and Rehabilitation, Department of Orthotics and Prostheticsis is

described. It is applied as a non-invasive device attached to the distal ring of

the Ilizarov external fixator to keep the ankle joint in a neutral position and

prevent ankle equinus during tibial lengthening with Ilizarov technique. This

minimises additional invasive techniques such as heel cord release and

prophylactic pinning of the heel and the foot, and manipulation under

anaesthesia. It may also be detached by the physiotherapist or patient when

physical therapy is needed during the lengthening procedure.