Open leg fractures: Clinical, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects of 30 cases collected at the Dalal Jamm National Hospital Center in Guédiawaye

Abstract

Introduction: Open leg fractures are the most common long bone fractures. It is a medical-surgical emergency which requires early treatment which can improve the functional prognosis of the limb. They are often caused by high energy trauma. Materials and Methods: this is a retrospective descriptive study over a period of 2 years (from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024) at CHN Dalal Jamm. We studied the epidemiological, anatomo-clinical, therapeutic and progressive aspects of open leg fractures. Results: In total, 30 patients were collected. Traffic accidents represented the most frequent cause (76.66%). The left leg was the most affected (56.66%). More than half (56.66%) of the patients had a type III opening of the Gustilo and Anderson classification. Twenty-one (21) patients, or 70%, had associated lesions. Osteosynthesis by external fixation was performed in 16 patients or 53.33%. Nine patients (09) had intramedullary nailing. Two patients had fasciocutaneous and pedicled flaps. There were two (02) cases of trans-femoral amputation. Complications were dominated by infections (23.33%). Conclusion: Open leg fractures represent a major trauma emergency requiring rapid and multidisciplinary care. Accurate assessment and appropriate treatment, including trimming, stabilization and soft tissue coverage, are essential to optimize results.