A REVIEW OF FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME AND INCIDENCE OF COMPLICATIONS IN CIRCULAR FINE-WIRE FIXATORS USED FOR OPEN TIBIAL FRACTURES

Introduction Open tibial fractures are associated with increased risk of complications, particularly a higher risk of infections and decreased functional outcome. Objectives To evaluate the incidence of complications and the functional outcomes after managing open tibial fractures with circular fine-wire fixators. Methods Retrospective review of 35 open tibial fractures treated with circular fine-wire fixators {Ilizarov and Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF)} in a teaching hospital. Patients were reviewed with x rays and clinical outcomes measured using Iowa Knee Score questionnaire, Olerud-Molander Ankle Scores (OMAS), Ankle Evaluation Score and Euroqol EQ-5D descriptive system (generic health questionnaire). Results Ilizarov frame was used for 19 (56%) and TSF was used for 16 (44%) patients. Mean patient age was 47.1 years. 74% had high energy while 26% had low energy injury. 4 patients (12%) had grade I, 3 (9%) had grade II, 27 (79%) patients had grade III injury as per Gustilo & Anderson Classification. 14% patients had proximal, 17% had mid-shaft, 67% had distal tibial fractures respectively. Average time to union was 28.9 weeks. 12 (35%) had pin-track infection treated with antibiotics. Grade IIIB fractures healed in 29.6 weeks. 17 required soft tissue coverage and only two developed skin graft complications. There was no case of deep infection & mal-union and one patient had non-union. Patients had good satisfaction scores (EQ-5D descriptive system) following surgery (mean = 0.751). The mean Iowa Knee Evaluation score, OMAS and Ankle Evaluation score was 87.32, 73.48 and 74 respectively (maximum being 100). The ankle range of movement was similar in operated and contra lateral normal ankles. Conclusions We report fewer complications with no incidence of deep infection rates and infection only limited to superficial tissues. Healing time is considerably reduced and there are high satisfaction rates with good functional outcomes.