Evaluation of the functional outcome in open tibial fractures managed with an Ilizarov fixator as a primary and definitive treatment modality

Abstract

Introduction: Open fractures are rapidly compounding problem for trauma surgeons. Open fractures of leg, which are perhaps the most common among open fracture, were taken as prototype in which extra articular fracture of tibia and fibula were taken. The key components of approach were aggressive debridement; primary Ilizarov fixation and soft tissue coverage. The study was undertaken to see if the patient can be treated with single surgery of primary external fixation with Ilizarov technique so as to reduce hospitalization stay and early return to work. Material and Methods: In the present study, twenty patients with open fracture tibia were operated with Ilizarov over period of two years and the results were analyzed. Results: 25%(5) had excellent, 45%(9) had good, 30%(6) had fair result based on bone score and 30%(6) had excellent, 55%(11) had good, 5%(1) had fair and 10%(2) had poor result based on functional score.Conclusion: Compound fracture of the leg can be effectively managed with use of ilizarov external fixator as a single staged procedure.