Our contribution to the external fixation in traumatology

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Biomedical engineering

Background:

• External fixation (EF) is a surgical treatment for complex fractures.
• Managing open fractures and pseudoarthroses presents significant challenges in traumatology.
• The study reviews a 5-year experience with various EF devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the clinical experience with external fixation in treating extremity trauma.
• To evaluate the efficacy of EF in managing open fractures, infected pseudoarthroses, and intraarticular fractures.
• To discuss the advantages of different EF methods and comprehensive care approaches.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 90 open fractures, 36 pseudoarthroses, and 18 intraarticular fractures managed with EF.
• Utilized various EF devices including Stuhler-Heise, Poldi 7, and Ilizarov's devices.
• Documented treatment outcomes, complications, and adjunctive procedures.

Main Results:

• EF was applied in 55% of severe (Gustilo grade III) open fractures, with a 20% primary amputation rate.
• Average EF application for open fractures was 64 days; primary healing occurred in one case.
• EF was used for infected pseudoarthroses and unstable intraarticular fractures, often supplemented with other surgical techniques.

Conclusions:

• External fixation is a valuable tool for complex extremity trauma, including severe open fractures and infected pseudoarthroses.
• While EF can facilitate healing, adjunctive treatments like soft tissue reconstruction and bone grafting are frequently necessary.
• Individual EF methods offer advantages, and a comprehensive approach is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.