Ilizarov joint distraction How does it work?
By offloading the joint, allowing the normal mechanical forces to bypass the joint surfaces.
Either this complete rest or an effect of stretching the joint reduces pain and may allow some cartilage recovery What will the operation improve?
The main effect is a reduction in symptoms of pain from the joint. Also interstingly the established xray arthritic changes of joint space narrowing and sclerosis beneath the joint itself appear to be reduced. How likely is it to improve my pain?
The published results are limited in terms of both patient numbers and length of follow up(50 patients and maximum 7 years).
If the technique is used in patients with arthritic symptoms severe enough to warrant fusion then a significant improvement is to be expected in 75% of patients, to the extent that fusion is avoided. How long will it last?
If improvement in symptoms occurs further progress may occur beyond the first year after the application of the frame.
The current follow up has shown that improvement can last to 7 years. | 
