Open Trimalleolar Fractures Treated with Ilizarov External Fixator

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Lower Extremity Fractures

Background:

• Open trimalleolar fractures represent severe ankle injuries, posing significant surgical challenges.
• Internal fixation is the standard treatment, but data on primary external fixation is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Ilizarov external fixator for primary treatment of open trimalleolar fractures.

Main Methods:

• Five patients with open trimalleolar fractures underwent single-stage procedures using Ilizarov external fixators.
• The apparatus was adjusted after six weeks to permit ankle mobility.

Main Results:

• All patients achieved full weight-bearing post-treatment without malunion, infection, or deep vein thrombosis.
• Two patients underwent arthrodesis (joint fusion) for post-traumatic arthrosis, with one requiring future fusion.
• Mean external fixator treatment duration was 11.6 weeks, with satisfactory radiological and clinical results.

Conclusions:

• The Ilizarov method provides a viable option for early, definitive management of open trimalleolar fractures.
• This approach is associated with a low risk of complications and favorable clinical outcomes.