ABSTRACT
The purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of open tibial shaft fiactures [Gustilo IIWB] with A0 External Fixator and to document complications. Perspective study. This study was conducted at DHQ teaching Hospital, Gujranwala and at Fazil Memorial Hospital, Gujranwala from November 2010 to November 2012. 50 patients with open tibial shaft fractures were treated with AO External Fixator. Open fractures were classified according to Gustilo Anderson Criteria and wounds with EIA and IIIB were selected. Outcome was determined by the rate of union, while nonunion, pin tract infection, pin loosening and osteomylitis were recorded as complications. The follow up period was 08 months. Out of fifty cases of open tibial shaft fractures, 38 [76%] were men and 12 [24%] were Ladies. Mean age was 35.2 [8-67], 22 [44%] had Gustilo IIIB wound while 28 [56%] had Gustilo IIIA injuries. Pin tract infection and pin loosening rate were 12% and 16% respectively. Nonunion was seen in 10% of the cases. In 41 [82%] of the cases fracture united and average union time was about 26.5 weeks. No case of osteomylitis seen. External Fixator is simple and effective treatment for open tibial fractures