One-Stage External Fixation Using a Locking Plate: Experience in 116 Tibial Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Management
• Biomaterials and Implants

Background:

• Tibial fractures represent a significant orthopedic challenge.
• Current fixation methods may involve complications or extensive procedures.
• The need for effective, minimally invasive fixation techniques is ongoing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of 1-stage external fixation using a locking plate for tibial fractures.
• To assess complication rates and healing times associated with this technique.
• To highlight the benefits of this method, particularly for metaphyseal fractures.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 116 patients with tibial fractures (85 closed, 31 open).
• 1-stage external fixation was performed using a locking plate.
• Patients were followed for an average of 22 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Mean surgery duration was 42 minutes.
• Fracture healing times varied by location: proximal (12 weeks), shaft (20 weeks), distal (14 weeks), and multisegmental (24 weeks).
• No cases of nonunion, deep infection, or screw breakage were reported.

Conclusions:

• 1-stage external fixation with a locking plate is a safe and effective treatment for tibial fractures.
• This method demonstrates particular efficacy for metaphyseal tibial fractures.
• Advantages include ease of performance, minimally invasive nature, and straightforward plate removal.