Treatment of Tibial Fractures by Ilizarov Technique: A Longitudinal Study.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Ilizarov technique has many advantages over conventional orthopedic treatment of fractures. It is minimally invasive and permits accurate reduction and alignment of comminuted, diaphyseal, and juxta-articular fractures. Acute infections following immediate fixation with nail or plate can be effectively managed with Ilizarov fixator. Materials and Methods: In the present study, twenty patients with tibia fractures were operated with Ilizarov over a period of 2 consecutive years and the results were analyzed. Fixator used is Ilizarov external fixator with Schanz pins and tensioned wires. Results: Results were assessed using bone score (ASAMI) and lower extremity functional scale. 68.4% had excellent, 15.8% patients had good, 5.3% patients had fair, and 10.5% patients had poor result. 57.9% patients had minimal disability, 26.3% patients had moderate disability, 10.5% patients had severe disability, and 1 patient crippled. Conclusion: Ilizarov circular fixation is an ideal method for fracture when extensive dissection and internal fixation are contraindicated due to trauma to soft tissue, deficiency of bone stock, infection, and comminuted fracture.