Segmental tibial fractures treated with Ilizarov circular fixator

Abstract

Background/Aim: Segmental fractures represent complex tibial injuries, featuring a unique fracture type that is most commonly caused by a high-energy trauma. These fractures are considered to be a treatment challenge for orthopaedic surgeons due to their sporadic presentation, wide zone of soft tissue injury, and increased rate of complications. They are characterised by highly unstable intermediary segment and high rate of open fractures. The method of Ilizarov with its characteristics could offer many advantages over the existing operative techniques. This method, using a percutaneous approach, minimizes the intraoperative trauma and avoids the additional compromising of the biological environment at the fracture site. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of Ilizarov fixator in treatment of segmental tibial fractures. Methods: We analysed 30 patients treated with an Ilizarov fixator between 2012 and 2017. Average age was 36 years (from 24 to 65). The most common mechanism of injury was a road traffic accident. Open fractures were noted in 22 cases. All fractures were reduced using indirect percutaneous techniques with a great focus on achieving the correct length, rotation and axial alignment of fragments. All patients were advised to bear weight as tolerated from the second postoperative day. Bone healing and functional results were evaluated according to criteria established by the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov. Results: Bone healing was achieved in all patients. The average time to union was 25 weeks (19 to 36 weeks). The bone results were excellent in 23 patients, good in five patients and fair in two patients. The functional results were excellent in 22 cases, good in 5 and fair in three cases. Eight patients had minor pin-tract infections, successfully treated with oral antibiotics. Patients were without any major complications. Conclusion: Ilizarov method is a safe and efficient treatment modality for segmental tibial fractures.

An evaluation of effectiveness of Ilizarov external fixation in treating infected non-union tibial fractures: a prospective observational study

“…9 Additionally, Tomić et al showcases the method's safety and efficiency, minimizing intraoperative trauma. 10 A case report by Asadi et al discusses the successful management of severely angulated and deformed pseudarthrosis non-union of the tibia using a free nonvascularised fibular strut graft. 11 The study by Singh et al further supports the effectiveness of free fibular grafting in managing large segmental bone defects and biological failure of bone healing.…”