Abstract

• PURPOSE: In many cases of open comminuted supracondylar fracture, it is very hard to apply traditional methods. So we have used Ender nails for temporary transarticular fixation. We thought that it could provide enough stability to control the wound and didn't promote further soft tissue damage or infection. We performed 2nd stage rigid fixation and bone graft after soft tissue healing. We have studied to prove this staged operation valuable to treat the very severe open comminuted supracondylar fracture of femur. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analysed 16 cases which have been treated with such staged operation method from April 1992 to April 1996 about complication, union time and functional result in retrospective method. RESULTS: We could prevent severe wound infection in all cases. We performed 2nd stage rigid fixation and bone graft average 6 weeks after first stage temporary fixation. The average union time was 8 months and average range of motion was 10degrees flexion contracture and 100degrees further flexion. CONCLUSION: In patients with very severe open comminuted supracondylar fracture of femur, the temporary fixation with transarticular Ender nails allowed the successful initial management for the secondary rigid fixation and bone graft and time could be saved for management of concomitant injuries. So this new staged operation is considered as a good method for safety, union time and functional result.
• Key words: fracture, supracondylar fracture, staged operation, transarticular, Ender nail

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