Endosteum and bone marrow thermal necrosis caused by reaming during tibial intramedullary nail insertion, and unskilled operation of soft tissue penestration by reamer resulted in chronic osteomyelitis and soft tissue defect. So, several times of free flaps were done but the result was unsuccessful. At last, the authors performed radical necrotic bone resection and internal bone transport using Ilizarov external fixator. The authors report case with literature review.
PURPOSE To study clinical results and complications in the treatment of infected nonunion of the tibia according to location of nonunion and reconstruction for soft tissue defect. MATERIALS AND METHODS 36 cases of tibia infected nonunion which were treated with the llizarov included in this study. There were proximal 1/3 in 14, middle 1/3 in 10, and distal 1/3 in 11 cases. Coverage of the soft tissue were treated with the free flap in 8 cases as classified group A and non-free flap in 17 cases classified group B. We evaluated the healing index, complications and comparing the results of each treatment by the Paley method. RESULTS Bone union was achieved in all cases. The proximal nonunion showed better results than those in the middle and distal area; average healing index: 35.6 days/cm (p=0.038), bone results: 92.9% (p=0.025), functional result: 90.5% (p=0.03). Group B showed significantly better results as it showed average healing index: 30.3 days/cm (p=0.015), bone results: 85.7% (p=0.025), functional results: 90.5% (p=0.015). CONCLUSION The nonunion of proximal 1/3 showed better results than other sites. Soft tissue reconstruction with free flap that control infection more effectively, could be improved the treatment outcomes.
PURPOSE We analyed the mid-term results of distal tibial fractures treated with ilizarov external fixator and functional results according to delayed metaphyseal healing and fracture pattern. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed 23 distal tibial fractures treated with ilizarov external fixator followed for minimum two year (mean 53 months). There were 10 A fractures, 2 B fractures, and 11 C fractures according to the AO classification. Radiographically, we analyzed bony union time according to translation of diaphyseal-metaphyseal fracture line and assessed arthritic score. Functional results was assessed with AOFAS score and analyzed according to delayed healing and fracture pattern. RESULTS Average union time was 21 weeks. Delayed healing of metaphyseal fracture line was associated translational displacement >3 mm (p=0.01). AOFAS scrore was averaged to 68 and there was no stastical significance between delayed metaphyseal healing and functional results (p=0.31). But, low AOFAS score and arthritis score was related to fracture type (p=0.02). In 11 C fractures, radiographic arthritic change were developed in 6 cases (55%). CONCLUSION The main prognosis of distal tibial fractures depends on articular involvement and to shorten the external fixation time, metaphyseal fracture should be reduced within 3mm.
PURPOSE To evaluate the clinical results of the pilon fractures treated with arthroscopically assisted limited open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a retrospective study of the clinical result, bone union, complication and postoperative ankle function of 22 pilon fractures treated with arthroscopically assisted limited open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation between January 1999 to March 2004. RESULTS Clinical follow up averaged 16 months, with an average age of 39.2. All patients with type 1 and 2 fracture had excellent or good score by Ovadia and Beals criteria. Closed fractures healed within 13 weeks and open fractures within 16 weeks after surgery in average. Average range of motion of the ankle was 12o dorsiflexion (0~20 degree) and 25o plantar flexion (15~35 degree). CONCLUSION Minimal soft tissue dissection and anatomical reduction are very important factor for minimizing complication and satisfactory ankle function. So, arthroscopically assisted limited open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation is an effective treatment option for tibial pilon fractures.
PURPOSE To evaluate the clinical results of radical necrotic bone resection and distraction osteogenesis for the treatment of infected nonunion of tibia using the Ilizarov technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS 32 patients who were followed up at least 1 year after the treatment of infected nonunion of tibia from March 1995 to March 2001 were evaluated. Their mean age was 43 years and mean duration of follow-up was 37 months. The results were divided into bone results and functional results and analyzed by grading to excellent, good, fair, and poor. RESULTS The average amount of bone lengthening was 5.3 cm (range, 2~10 cm) and the average healing index was 61.5 days/cm (range, 52.7~70.4 days/cm). Bony union was obtained at average 10.3 months in all cases. The bone result was excellent in 9 cases, good 18, and fair 5. The functional result was excellent in 8 cases, good 16, fair 7, and poor 1 case. CONCLUSION Ilizarov technique is an effective method in the treatment of infected nonunion of tibia for early range of motion exercise, weight bearing and correction of limb shortening.
PURPOSE To retrospectively review the results of internal bone transport in the management of tibial bone defect using ilizarov fixator. MATERIALS AND METHODS We treated 39 cases of tibial bone defect (16 of traumatic bone loss, 23 after treatment of osteomyelitis). The mean age of index procedure was 33.8 years (range, 13~66 years), and all of them had follow-up study for a mean of 3.5 years (range, 1.6~8 years). The mean transported amount was 6.3 cm (range, 2.7~20 cm), and the external fixator was removed after 345 days (range, 120~700 days). The mean external fixation index was 60.3 days/cm (range, 13.1~121.3 days/cm). RESULTS Primary union of distraction and docking site was achieved in all, but two patients had failure in union of docking site. Functional results showed 6 excellent, 19 good, 10 fair, and 4 fair. The patients under age 20 showed better functional outcomes than the others. Among 73 complications (incidence, 1.87 cases/ patient), 27 of major complications with residual sequelae occurred in 20 patients. The residual sequelae were more common in the patients who had the concomitant injuries in the same leg. CONCLUSION Internal bone transport can solve the large amount of tibial bone defect. However, the complications are not uncommon, which might be related to the concomitant injures in the same leg.
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Bone Transport Over the Intramedullary Nail for Defects of Long Bone Jae-Young Roh, Chang-Wug Oh, Jong-Keon Oh, Hee-Soo Kyung, Byung-Chul Park, Woo-Kie Min, Joon-Woo Kim, Chang-Hyun Cho Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2008; 21(1): 37. CrossRef
Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis to Prevent or Treat the Deformity after Distraction Osteogenesis Chang-Wug Oh, Byung-Chul Park, Il-Hyung Park, Hee-Soo Kyung, Woo-Kie Min, Seung-Hoon Baek, Seung-Kil Baek The Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association.2007; 42(6): 764. CrossRef
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of Ilizarov fixation in tibial plateua fractures (Schatzker type IV, V, VI), the clinical and radiological results were analysed retrospectively. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of the tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker type IV, V, VI) which had been treated by using Ilizarov fixatrion method at Dankook university from June 1995 to June 2004, we clinically, radiologically analysed the 47 cases with follow-up study of a mean 38 months. Overall results which were evaluated according to Blokker's evaluation system. RESULTS The average start time of the range of motion excercise was 4.2 weeks, and the average start time of partial weight bearing was 4.6 weeks. Results which were evaluated according to Blokker's evaluation systems were "satisfactory" in 8 cases (80%) of the type IV fractures, in 9 cases of the type V fracures, and in 18 cases (69%) of the type VI. Overall results were "satisfactory" in 35 cases (74.4%), "unsatisfactory" in 12 cases (25.5%). CONCLUSION When use Ilizarov fixation in tibial plateau fracture (Schatzker type IV, V, VI), we have many advantages that the early start time of the range of motion, the early start time of weight bearing, the acceptable results of Blokker's evaluation system. Therefore, we conclude that Ilizarov fixation in tibial plateua fracure (Schatzker type IV, V, VI) is effective.
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Treatment of Shatzker Type VI Tibia Plateau Fracture Using Lateral and Posteromedial Dual Incision Approach and Dual Plating In-Jung Chae, Sang-Won Park, Soon-Hyuck Lee, Won Noh, Ho-Joong Kim, Seung-Beom Hahn Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2009; 22(4): 252. CrossRef
Dual Plate Fixation Compared with Hybrid External Fixator Application for Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures Jae-Sung Lee, Yong-Beom Park, Han-Jun Lee Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2008; 21(2): 124. CrossRef
PURPOSE To emphasis an effectiveness of the Ilizarov circular external fixator in treatment of the complicated segmental fractures of the tibia MATERIALS AND METHODS: We had analyzed 15 cases in 14 persons, treated from November 1993 to March 2000. We analyzed several considering factors including age, etiology, type of fracture, number of the segmentation, associated injuries, open or closed fracture, healing time, additional bone graft, clinical results and complications. RESULTS The mean period of follow up was 22 months. The mean age was 45 years. The etiology was traffic accident in 13 persons. Open fracture were 11 cases (73%). Associated injuries were noted in 8 persons (53%). The number of segmentation were three segments in 9 cases (60%) and four segments in 6 cases (40%). Additional manipulations after first application were needed in 10 cases (67%). Bone graft were performed in 5 fracture site (9.8%), proximal fracture site in two and distal in two, middle in one. Mean period of application of external fixator for healing was 8.1 Months. Procedures for soft tissue injuries performed in 3 cases including two split thickness skin graft and distant flap surgery. The results were graded as excellent in 5 cases, good in 2 cases, fair in 1 cases, poor in 7 cases. Limitation of motion in ankle joint was major cause of poor results CONCLUSION: We considered that ilizarov circular external fixator is one of effective treatment modality in treatment of the complicated segmental tibia fractures.
PURPOSE We analyzed the results and complications of the treatment of segmental fractures of the tibia associated with periarticular fracture by using Ilizarov external fixator. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed 17 patients of segmental fractures of the tibia were treated by Ilizarov external fixator and were followed for a minimum one year. There were twelve closed fractures, three type 3A, and two type 3B open fractures. According to Melis classification, there were five type I, four type II, and eight type III. All closed fractures were reduced and fixed with Ilizarov external fixator within seven days. Open fractures were performed immediate wound irrigation and radical debridement and fixed with Ilizarov external fixator. Autogenous iliac bone graft was done in five severe comminuted fractures. Average time in bone graft was 7.5 weeks after operation. We analyzed bony union time according to configuration and site of the fractures, results of the treatment, and complications. The functional outome was assessed with rating system of Tucker. RESULTS In all cases, bony union was obtained, and average union time was 20.5 weeks. According to modified Melis classification, our results showed no difference between each criteria with respect to bony union and there was no difference bony union time between proximal and distal fracture site. There were two leg-length discrepancy less than 2 cm, one partial ankylosis of the knee joint, and ten pin tract infections. The functional results was excellent in 11 cases, good in 5 cases, and fair in one case. CONCLUSION Ilizarov external fixator can be useful method for the treatment of segmental fractures of the tibia associated with juxtaarticular fracture in respect of bony union and functional results.
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to compare the results between open reduction and internal fixation with plate and screws and closed reduction and external fixation with Ilizarov device for the fracture of disatal metaphyseal fracture of tibia. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, the results in treatment of the 19 distal metaphyseal fractures of tibia with closed reduction and external fixation with Ilizarov device were compared with those in treatment of the 23 fractures with open reduction and internal fixation with a plate and screws. The cases were the patients who had been treated for the fractures at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dankook University Hospital from May 1997 to December 2000. The results of treatment were analysed using functional evaluation by Mast and Teipner and radiological evaluation by Ovadia and Beals. RESULTS The results were as follows: 1. The major causes of injury were motor vehecle accidents, fall-downs, and falls from a height in order.
2. Treatment of the fractures with closed reduction and external fixation with Ilizarov device showed comparable results to that with open reduction and internal fixation with a plate and screws.
3. Complications in treatment were a little more frequent in open reduction and internal fixation with a plate and screws than in closed reduction and external fixation with Ilizarov device. CONCLUSION Considering the results, closed reduction and external fixation with Ilizarov device is thought to be one of recommendable options in treatment of the distal metaphyseal fractures of tibia with the advantages in wound management, prevention of stiffness of ankle joint, and convenience in removal of the device.
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Mid-term Results of Distal Tibial Fractures Treated with Ilizarov External Fixator Suk Kyu Choo, Kyung Wook Nha, Hyoung Keun Oh, Dong Bong Lee Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2007; 20(4): 323. CrossRef
PURPOSE We tried to compare the results of Ilizarov external fixation cases with the cases of secondary intramedullary nailing after tempory Ilizarov fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS From the January 1996 to February 2001 , 34 cases of severe open tibial shaft fracture in adults were treated with Ilizarov external fixation and secondary intramedullary nailing after temporary Ilizarov fixation. According to Gustilo- Anderson classification, it consisted of type II 2 ,IIIA 7 ,IIIB 9 ,IIIC 2cases in Ilizarov group ,and type II 2, IIIA 7, IIIB 5cases in secondary intramedullary nailing group. RESULT There was no significant difference in the union time of Ilizarov external fixation and secondary intramedullary nailing after temporary Ilizarov fixation. But the secondary nailed group had slightly better motion , less final angulation and felt more comfortable . It is the treatment preferred by patients and does not require the same high level of patient compliance as external fixation. CONCLUSION Secondary intramedullary nailing after temporary Ilizarov fixation is the useful method in the treatment of open fractures of tibia.
PURPOSE To report the result and the advantage of Ilizarov device when treating the tibial plafond fractures described as difficult to manage. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 10 cases of tibial plafond fractures treated with Ilizarov device form March 1996 to October 1999. If necessary, limited internal fixation was combined and the mean follow-up time was 11 months. The clinical and the radiological results were evaluated after operation. RESULTS The objective clinical results were classified as good (4 cases), fair (5 cases), and poor (1 case). The average union time was 13 weeks and there were ankle pain, wound infection and traumatic arthritis after opertion, but severe complications such as osteomyelitis and nonunion were not appeared. CONCLUSION For tibial plafond fractures, Ilizarov device minimize the soft tissue injury and combined limited internal fixation improve the result.
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to report results of treatment of tibial condylar fracture using the Ilizarov external fixator.
MATERIALS & METHOD: 21 Cases of tibial condylar fracture, which were operatively treated with Ilizarov external fixator were evaluated clinically & radiographically. All patients were followed for at least 1 years. RESULTS Primary bony union was achieved in 15 cases(71.4%) and bony union after secondary operative procedure was obtained in 6 cases(28.6%).
The fracture was united within 6 months except 2 cases. As complications, pin irritation was observed in 6 cases and Joint stiffness in 1 case, delayed union in 1 cases, nonunion in 1case CONCLUSION: We could obtain satisfactory clinical results with using of Ilizarov external fixator in treating of tibial condylar fractures. The good indications for the use of Ilizarov external fixator seems to be high energy tibial condylar fracture difficult to fixation with other method. In cases of bony defect or severe comminuted fractures, we shall obtain better outcome when bone graft is performed.
PURPOSE To analyze the clinical results and complications of the Ilizarov technique in the treatment of the tibial nonunion. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-seven patients who had infected nonunion of the tibia were managed with Ilizarov external fixator form January 1992 to January 1997. Types of nonunion were classified according to Paley and status of infection were divided into AO classification. We evaluated clinical outcomes and complications which were assessed with rating system of Paley. RESULTS All cases obtained bony union. The mean time to union was 11.5 months. On average, healing index was 51.4 days/cm(range 28-72 days/cm) and percentage of increment was 18.5 %(range, 13-31.5 %). According to Paley criteria, bone results were good to excellent in 22 cases(81.5 %), and functional results were good to excellent in 24 cases(88.9 %). Total thirty five complications were occurred, which were classified by Paley criteria, problems in 15 cases, obstacles in 17 cases, and complication in 3 case. CONCLUSION Ilizarov technique is a useful method in management of the tibial nonunion, but we have to consider the complications and endeavor to reduce them.
PURPOSE : To evaluate the results of the treatment of distal tibial fracture using ring or hybrid ring external fixator and to compare the results according to the influencing factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS : The authors analized 30 patients, 31 cases of distal tibial fracture who were treated by Ilizarov ring external fixator or hybrid ring external fixator at our hospital from May 1996 to August 1998 and were followed up over 1 year. The type of distal tibial fractrue were classified according to AO group, type A was 7 cases, and type C was 24(C1:5, C2:4, C3:15)cases. Restoration of articular surface of the distal tibia was performed through closed method or minimal invasive technique by minimal internal fixation with K-wire or screw. Then fixation of th distal tibia was done by ring external with multiple transfixing wire. Connection to the tibial shaft was done by Ilizarov ring external fixator(15 cases), or mono-external fixator(Dyna-Extor, 16 cases). RESULTS : By Tornetta's assessment of functional results, excellent was 5, good 19, fair 4 and poor 3cases. According to AO classification, the functional results of type A, 7cases were all above good results, among 24 cases of type C, 4cases of C1, 2 cases of C2, and 11 cases of C3 were above good results and there was no statistical difference between the results and the fracture type(P=0.024). One of 3 cases of poor functional results was open type C3 fracture and was complicated with osteomyelitis and refracture, and others two cases type C2 fracture which were complicated with malunion. CONCLUSION : The authors had a good results without soft tissue complication after the treatment of distal tibial fracture patients by Ilizarov ring external fixator or hybrid ring external fixator.
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Mid-term Results of Distal Tibial Fractures Treated with Ilizarov External Fixator Suk Kyu Choo, Kyung Wook Nha, Hyoung Keun Oh, Dong Bong Lee Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2007; 20(4): 323. CrossRef
PURPOSE Recently, the incidence of humerus fracture not allowing open reduction and internal fixation has been increased with increment of traffic accident and industrial accident. But, there have been a few reports in the use of Ilizarov external fixator. The purpose of this study is to report the authors'experience with Ilizarov external fixation for the treatment of the patients with fractures of the humerus. MATERIALS AND METHODS From June 1996 to July 1998, we reviewed sixteen patients with humeral fracture who were treated by the Ilizarov external fixator. Three fractures were in the middle third of the shaft; two, in the proximal third; two, in the distal third; seven, in the proximalmiddle; two, in the middle-distal. The fractures that were located within the joint of the shoulder or the elbow were excluded. Five fractures had been open and six had been associated with multiple trauma. Two had been initially treated by open reduction and internal fixation but failed : one, because of infection; the other, because of loss of fixation. We performed the Ilizarov external fixator procedure in the case of soft tissue trauma so severe that internal fixation was impossible, and in the case of the comminution too extensive and severe for internal fixation. RESULTS The average time to radiologic union was 12.7 weeks. According to Stewart and Hundley's functional assessment system, excellent or good results were obtained in 14 cases. There was no poor result. CONCLUSION Although the Ilizarov external fixator was a technically demanding procedure, it was a good method comparing with any other operative methods for the treatment of fractures of the humerus not allowing the open reduction and internal fixation.
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Contributing Factors of Radial Nerve Palsy Associated with Humeral Shaft Fracture Tae-Soo Park, Joon-Hwan Lee, Tai-Seung Kim, Kwang-Hyun Lee, Ki-Chul Park Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2008; 21(4): 292. CrossRef
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of Ilizarov external fixator for the treatment of unstable closed or open comminuted femoral and tibial fractures, especially those with severe soft tissue injury by clinical and radiological analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty six consecutive femoral or tibial fractures were treated using Ilizarov external fixator between May 1991 and August 1998 and followed up for minimum 12 months upto 36 months with the average of 16 months. All of them consisted of comminuted or segmental fractures. And thirty five cases of them were open fractures. There were nine Type I, seventeen Type II, five Type IIIA, and four Type IIIB fractures. Primary closure was performed for Type I and II fractures. Split-thickness skin graft (5 cases) and free vascularized flap (3 cases) were used for severe soft tissue defects. RESULTS All fractures healed within the average of 7.7 months (from minimum 3 months to maximum 24 months). Bone grafts were performed in 39 cases. Bony union was obtained in all the cases with Ilizarov method. The most common complication, the adjacent joint contracture was developed in 21 cases (37.5%). Pin site infection in 12 cases (21.4%), delayed union in 3 cases (5.4%), angulation deformity in 2 cases (3.6%) were developed. CONCLUSION The Ilizarov external fixation technique is one of the effective methods in the management of unstable closed or open comminuted femoral or tibial fractures.
PURPOSE To analyze the clinical results and complications of internal transport by Ilizarov for defect nonunion of tibia MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 24 patients undertaken internal transport by Ilizarov for defect nonunion of tibia from January 1991 to December 1997. There were 21 males and 3 females with a mean age of 33.4 years(range, 17-64 years). On average, the size of bone defect measured 7.9 cm(range, 2-17 cm). Bone defects were gradually closed by progressive internal transport. After internal transport, bone grafts on 14 docking sites were performed because of delayed union. Soft tissue defects were treated with secondary closures(6 cases), skin grafts(4 cases), and flaps(4 cases). RESULTS According to Paley and Catagni's classification, bone results were excellent in 19 cases, good in 4 cases, and poor in 1 case. Functional results were excellent in 2 cases, good in 21 cases, and poor in 1 case. According to Paley's classification, the complications were developed as follows; Problems were pin site infections(12 cases), joint contractures(9 cases), and distraction gap delayed consolidations(3 cases). Obstacle was absent. Complication was refracture(1 case). The average distraction consolidation index was 39.4 days/cm. The average percentage transport was 139.7 %. CONCLUSION The application of Ilizarov to defect nonunion of the tibia is effective, but correct technique and careful follow-up is required.
PURPOSE : This study was to evaluate the results and complications in gap nonunions of the tibia treated by Ilizarov method MATERIALS and METHODS : We reviewed 30 patients of tibial nonunions(23 atrophic, 7 hypertrophic) with bone loss(1-l3cm, mean 4.6cm) who were treated by Ilizarov technique. The causes of bone defect were open fracture with bone loss(15 cases) and infected nonunions(15 cases). Bone defects were closed by Ilizarov bone transport technique. RESULTS All patients had satisfactory union. The mean distraction-consolidation index (distraction-consolidation time/ distraction gap) was 1.3 months/cm. The younger patients and metaphyseal lengthening healed faster than the older patients and diaphyseal lengthening. Even though, we met with the numerous complicationt such as pain around the pin site, pin site infection and delayed union, we could successfully treat most of them. CONCLUSION : The application of Ilizarov techniques to nonunions of the tibia with bone defect was very effective, but correct technique and careful follow-up examination was required to avoid complications.
From March 1996 to March 1999, thirty two cases of comminuted tibial fractures were treated with Ilizarov external fixator. 13 cases were closed fractures and 19 cases open fractures.
Among 19 open fractures, there were 3 cases of Gustilo type I, 10 cases of type II and 6 cases of type III fractures. All the cases could not be initially treated by open reduction and internal fixation because of open wound or severe comminution. Among 32 cases, 4 were tibial condyles, 22 were tibial shafts, 6 were tibial plafonds. All the cases were followed up from a minimum 12 months up to 35 months with an dverage of 22 months.
We obtained satisfactory bony union in ail cases with the average duration of 18.1 weeks.
Bone graft was done initially in two cases. Numerous complications were encountered, most commonly, joint stiffness and pin tract infection were developed but they were treated well. To avoid such complications, careful management was needed. According to Tuckers clafsification, the result was graded as excellent in 8, good in 18, fair in 4 and poor in 2 cases.
We conclude that Ilizarov external fixatior is a very useful method for initial treatment in getting reduction, maintenance of reduction, early ambulation and fracture healing in cases of communited tibial fractures whether open or closed.
Pilon fracture which is defined as a comminuted intraarticular fracture of distal tibia has been known to be difficult to manage because high axial compression and rotational forces to the ankle joint result in impaction, severe comminution, metaphyseal disruption, and soft tissue trauma. Several authors have reported good results using an AO group treatment principle. However, others have documented less favorable results such as skin slough, wound infection, and osteomyelitis. Recently, satisfactory results were obtained by the treatment with open reduction and fixation using Ilizarov method.
We reviewed and analyzed 22 cases of the pilon fracture treated by the two methods O.R.I.F. and fixation by Ilizarov method) and compared the results to find out the usefulness of fixation by Ilizarov method, from Feb. 1993 to Mar. 1997 at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul Red Cross Hospital.
Fixation by Ilizarov method using ligamentotaxis and occasional minimal open reduction was effective for fracture reduction. It also decreased complications such as wound infection, skin necrosis, and osteomyelitis because it did not need extensive soft tissue dissection. And, it was also useful for severe comminuted fracture, open fracture, and fracture with extensive diaphyseal extension to proximal metaphysis.
PURPOSE It is to evaluate and discuss the result of severe open tibial shaft fractures treated by Ilizarov external fixation. MATERIALS and METHODS From the January 1992 to July 1997, 34 cases of severe open tibial shaft fracture in adults were treated with Ilizarov external fixator. 20 males and 14 females were followed for at least 1 year. RESULTS Fractures were evenly distributed through proximal 1/3 to distal 1/3 and its pattern was mostly comminuted one. According to Gustilo-Anderson classification, it mainly consisted of type IIIa &IIIb(28 cases: 82%). Mean bony union time was 40.2 months. There were 5 cases(15%) of delayed union, 2 cases(6%) of nonunion, 5 cases(15%) of deep infection including 3 cases(9%) of osteomyelitis, 10 cases(29%) of pin tract infection, 4 cases(12%) of malunion and 11 cases(32%) of ankle stiffness. CONCLUSION Conclusively, in the first place, for the successful treatment with Ilizarov external fixator, determining appropriate indications is the most important. Secondly, active reconstruction of soft tissue environment and early prophylactic bone graft, if necessary, are also essential to shorten union time. Thirdly, meticulous care of pin site and ankle motion is needed for the prevention of the two most common complications even though they are considered to be minor.
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of the Ilizarov method as a treatment of open or comminuted supracondylar fractures which are uncommon, and difficult to manage because of the wide range of potential complications. MATERIALS and METHODS Between 1992 and 1999, we treated open or comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur by Ilizarov method in whole period or conversion to OR/IF with or without bone graft after transient Ilizarov fixation. There were 13 cases in 11 patients. Open comminuted fractures were seven cases and closed comminuted fracutres were six cases. We compared Ilizarov method in all procedures and temporary mode followed by internal fixation for definite care. RESULTS According to Schatzker and Lamberts assessment the results were good or excellent in ten cases(77%). And the results were rated as good or excellent in 67% of case of Ilizarov method in all procedures, and 86% of cases changed to OR/IF. CONCLUSION Ilizarov technique is an useful method in cases of open and/or comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur. And after initial stabilization of fracture, conversion to OR/IF is advisable to prevent pin site infection and allow ROM excercise of the knee joint.
Between June 1996 and July 1997, 29 tibial fracture patients were treated using the Ilizarov method and apparatus. The mean follow-up petiod was 18 months. Among 29 cases, 11 were closed fractures with comminution and 18 were open fractures. There were 2 Gustilo-Anderson type I, 5 type II, and 11 type III open tibial fractures. Complications included 4 pin tract average time from application of the device to complete fracture healing was 26.3 weeks. According to Tucker's functional criteria, the results were 14 excellent, 9 good, 4 fair, 2 poor. No practical contraindications to the use of the Ilizarov device in the management of tibial fractures were encountered. We concluded that Ilizarov method is indeed a useful adjunct for the treatment of either open or closed tibial fractures.
External skeletal fixation is used widely in the management of open or closed tibial fractures, but delayed healing is common. There is concern that this might be due not only due to the severity of injury but also to the mechanical conditions imposed at the fracture site by the fixator. Since fractures treated by external skeletal fixation can rarely be reduced to perception nor held with absolute stability, union occurs by indirect healing, which is acutely sensitive to both the charactericstics and timing of mechanical stimulation. So, the achivevment of the optimum mechanical environment is particularly important where delay in bone healing is likely. Ilizarov external fixator is useful in treating open fractures of the tibial shaft because it permits axial micromotion which enhances bridging callus formation with stable fixation as well as its complications such as infected nonunion or limb length discrepancy. The impared healing with external fixation is often caused by wrong surgical technique, such as distraction of fracture fragments by fixation device. Sequential compression at fracture site may overcome any fracture gap in external skeletal fixation and also enhance endosteal bone formation. We applied sequential compression forces at the fracture site in 18 open fractures of the tibial shaft, trated by Ilizarov external fixator with or without autogenous bone grafting. Sequential compression technique is composed of initial compression with 1 mm/wk for 4 weeks and then compression 1 mm/10 days until adequate apposition of cortex and callus formation in radiograph. We acquired successful bony union in all cases except one which had additional bone grafting in open fractures of the tibial shaft by sequential compression technique using Ilizarov device.
The authors retrospectively reviewed 22 pilon fractures in 22 patients treated with limited ORIF with external fixation by Ilizarov method. Clinical follow up averaged 28 months (range, 16-45 months). Interfragmental screw fixation of key fragments were done in fifteen cases and bone-grafting was done in thirteen cases. The average duration of external fixation was fourteen weeks. All of the fractures healed (one after delayed bone-grafting). The subjective and objective results were classified according to Ovadia and Beals. Sixteen patients (72%) had good and excellent results at final follow up. On the basis of these early results, the prevalence of complications asociated with pilon fractures and their treatments can be decreased by external fixation of Ilizarov method and limited internal fixation. We conclude that this method is good treatment modality on tibial pilon frature.
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is gaining in popularity as method of choice for the treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fracture since diagnosis and classification of computed tomography have become routine. But early weight-bearing cannot be allowed by convertional ORIF, and delayed weight-bearing may contributed to heel had pain and dystrophy. We performed combined technique of limited internal fixation and Ilizrov external fixation to ten-cases of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures, between February 1994 and February 1996. The follow-up period in this study was at least two years. This method can provide not only anatomical reduction, but also stable fixation. None of patients complained of heel pad pain, which was attributed to the desensitization of the heel by early weight-bearing. None of patients went on to late collapse of the posterior facet. clinical results were rated as excellent in six, good in three, and fair in one case. Pin-track infection, complicated operative technique, cumbersomeness and expensiveness of the external fixator itself were shortcomings of this method. We consider this method as one of options for the treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fracture.
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A Comparison of Extensile Lateral Approach and Sinus Tarsi Approach for the Sanders Type II Calcaneal Fracture Jeong-Seok Moon, Woo-Chun Lee Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2009; 22(1): 13. CrossRef
The treatment of open comminuted tibial shaft fractures have a high incidence of complications and often result in poor outcomes. General principles of treatment are accepted throughout most surgeons, which include aggressive debricdement, antibiotics, early stabilization, early soft tissue coverage, and prophylactic bone graft. But, recently there is a controversy on the bony stabilization methods; one group of authors favors external fixator, and the other group favors unreamed interlocking intramedullary nail. In this paper, we carried out retrospective study of the 42 cases of open comminuted tibial shaft fractrues managed with Ilizarov external fixator (minimum follow up of one year(average: 2.8 years)). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of treatment with an Ilizarov method for the patients with open comminuted tibia fractures (open type III-A and more by Gustilo and Anderson classification and, type B and more by AO classification). The results were as follows; 1. It has taken 7.4 months to achieve bony union with relatively delayed healing time for the diaphyseal fractures and fractures with higher energy injury on AO classification). The results were as follows; 1. It has taken 7.4 months to achieve bony union with relatively delayed healing time for the diaphyseal fractures and fractures with higher energy injury on AO classification. 2. Forty eight additional operations were needed for 27 patients; 24 bone grafts for 19 atients, 1 case of bone marrow injection, 4 cases of corticotomy and bone transport, 4 cases of sequestrectomy, 3 cases of internal fixation with plate, 2 cases of IM nailings, and 2 cases of Ilizarov correction in operating room. 3. Following complications were resulted in; delayed union 14 cases, nonunion 1 case, superficial infection 2 cases, deep infection 8 cases, chronic osteomyelitis 3 cases, refracture 2 cases, knee stiffness 6 cases, ankle stiffness 5 cases, subtalar stiffness 8 cases, lateral angulation 4 cases, anteroposterior angulation 4 cases, and leg length discrepancy 5 cases. 4. Twenty patients, at the final follow-up, could walk without limping and live their life with no activity limitation. 5. At the final follow-up, 19 patients complained intermittent pain on fracture sites, knees or feet and ankles. We could conclude that the Ilizarov external fixator can be a stabilizer of choice for the open comminuted (Gustilo type III and more than AO type B) tibial shaft fractures of which fracture line extended over the proximal or distal metaphysis.
Infected nonunion developed after open reduction and internal fixation is one of the serious complications among the treatments of fracture of long bone. It is very difficult to eliminate the infection, to correct the deformity and defect at the same time obtaining union. All six cases were male, the average of age was 34 years old from 21 to 49. Five cases were closed fracture and one was open fracture. For the primary internal implant, five cases were plate and one was intramedullary nail. About the 6 cases of infected nonunion of femur from June, 1994 to October, 1996, we performed the following procedure : after removal of internal fixation, extensive debridememt, complete sequestrectomy, firm fixation with Ilizarov external fixator, compression at fracture site and early autogenous cancellous bone graft. We obtained following results : 1. The average duration of infection was 7.8 months, average duration of bone union was 5.8 months. Average duration of follow-up was 17.5 months. 2. The average shortening of leg was 1.4cm. 3. According to classification of Paley and Catagni, the bone results were excellent in all cases, functional results were excellent in 4 cases and fair in 2 cases.
4. In conclusion, firm fixation with Ilizarov fixator, sequestrectomy, early autogenous cancellous bone graft and compression is one of the good treatment modalities of infected nonunion of the femur.
We reviewed infected non-union of tibia and femur which had been treated by radical resection of the necrotic bone and Ilizarov method in thirty-nine patients. All patients had either one-segment or two segment lengthening of bone with a technique of bone transport. The size of the bone defect that was bridged averaged 5.7cm (range, 2 to 16cm). All cases attained bone union and the infection was eradicated in all pattints before the fixator was removed. The mean duration of external fixator was 14 months(range, 4-28months). The mean external fixation index was 1.6 months/cm and the mean distraction index was 23.2 days/cm. The functional results were exellent in 3 patients, good in 19, fair in 9, poor in 8. The bone results were excellent in 5 patients, good in 20, fair in 10, poor in 4. Complication were pin tract infection in 15 patients, equinus contracture of ankle in 2, knee flexion contracture in 1, transient sensory change in 1, axial deviation in 2, premature consolidation in 2, delayed union in 2, and leg length discrepancy in 2, and refracture in 1.
In conclusion, the Ilizarov method is very effective for treatment of infected non-union with bone loss, limb shortening and soft tissue defect.