Pin site care during circular external fixation using two different protocols.

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Infectious Disease Management
• Biomaterials and Medical Devices

Background:

• Ilizarov external fixation is a key treatment for tibial fractures.
• Pin site complications are a significant drawback, with no consensus on optimal care.
• Effective pin site management is crucial for successful Ilizarov fixation outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of two distinct pin site care techniques in patients with tibial fractures treated with Ilizarov external fixation.
• To evaluate infection rates and patient comfort associated with different post-operative pin site management protocols.

Main Methods:

• Prospective randomized study involving 610 pin sites in 39 patients.
• Group 1: Daily showering and brushing with soap and toothbrush after initial antiseptic care.
• Group 2: Daily showering and cleaning with antiseptic (Polyod) after initial antiseptic care.

Main Results:

• Minor infection rates were 50.7% (Group 1) and 43.6% (Group 2).
• Major infection rates were 3.5% (Group 1) and 3.7% (Group 2).
• No statistically significant difference in infection rates was observed between the two pin site care groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Pin site care for Ilizarov external fixators can be managed effectively without complex sterilization.
• Patients can shower daily and perform self-care, enhancing comfort and compliance.
• Simple, non-complex pin site care protocols are sufficient for managing tibial fracture external fixation.