Abstract

• PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the functional outcome and propose the guidelines in the surgical treatment of open type III tibial fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We have analyzed the treatment results of 44cases; age was ranged from 15 to 76 years, and there were 35 males and 7 females. The type of fracture according to the classification by Gustilo revealed type IIIa 14 cases, type IIIb 20 cases and type IIIc in 8 cases. We analyzed functional outcome according to the classification of functional result by Tucker. RESULTS: The average union time of type IIIa was 9.2 months, IIIb 11.0 months, and IIIc was 13.8 months. The rotational flap and free flap were done during treatment and bone lengthening especially in type IIIc. Functional results were poor especially in type IIIc. CONCLUSION: Debridement of devitalized tissue, early soft tissue coverage and sufficient stability using intramedullary nails will be necessary in type IIIa fracture. Rigid external fixation, early soft tissue coverage by rotational muscle flap and free flap reduced infection rate with satisfactory functional outcome especially in type IIIb and IIIc fractures.
• Key words: Open type III tibia fracture, Rigid fixation, Bone graft, Free flap

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