Functional Evaluation of Long Bone Nonunion Managed by Limb Reconstruction System

Abstract

Abstract Background: The management of infected nonunion of long bones is a demanding task for the treating surgeon. Various treatment options have been tried in the past with less than satisfactory outcome. The purpose of the study was to establish the efficacy of limb reconstruction system (LRS) in the treatment of nonunion of the tibia and the possibility of correcting any bone length discrepancy. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed on 30 patients with infected nonunion of lower limb long bones, treated with LRS for 2 years between November 2018 and December 2020, in our institution. The outcome was evaluated on the basis of bone union and functional outcome using the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) score. Results: According to the ASAMI score, results were excellent in 75% good in 10%, fair in 5%, and poor in 10% of patients. The average union time was 44 weeks and average fixation time was 46 weeks. Conclusion: LRS is a lightweight, patient-friendly device that does not interrupt patient’s day-today activities. It is useful for managing limb length discrepancies, allows early mobilization and better wound management, thus it is an effective and versatile treatment modality in infected nonunion of the tibia.