External fixation as definitive treatment for comminuted tibia diaphyseal fractures

Abstract

The  aim  of  this  study   was  to  evaluate   the  effectiveness  of  unilateral external    fixator   as   primary    and   definitive   treatment    for   tibial   fractures, fractures  with severe soft tissues injuries,  and in multiply injured  patients.  Fifty tibial  shaft  fractures   50 patients)  were  treated.   In  open  fractures,   union  was achieved   in 25 weeks,  while   in  closed  in 21.  There   were  2  nonunion,    4 delayed unions,   4  malunions,    5 pin  infections    and  (1)  osteomyelitis.   A  reoperation     was performed  in 41 patients.  . The external  fixator was definitive treatment  in 100%. Unilateral  external  fixators  can be used as primary  and definitive  treatment  for complicated  tibia shaft fractures.  Re-operation  or change of the method  must be performed  only when there is a delay in callus formation.