Functional outcome of antibiotic coated interlocking intramedullary nail in open tibia diaphyseal fracture

Abstract

Introduction: Open fracture of tibia is one of the most common injuries seen in ortho pedic practice. The appropriate treatment of open tibial fractures is one of the priority problems in modern era of traumatology. New tibial titanium nail with a biodegradable gentamicin-loaded coating (UTNPR Otect, Synthes) was CE-certified in August 2005. The main goal of locally delivered antibiotics is to prevent bacterial colonization of the implant surface, there by reducing the risk of implant-related infections. Aims and Objectives: To assess functional and clinical outcome after intramedullary locking nail fixation of open fracture shaft of tibia.Method and Materials: 25 patients were selected of age group 18-65 yrs presenting with open fracture shaft tibia on the basis of OPD and emergency admissions in M.B. Govt Hospital Udaipur. Fractures were classified as per gustilo anderson classification. All patients were treated operatively with antibiotic coated intramedullary interlocking nail. and its outcomes were assested on the basis of Alho and Ekeland Criteria and complications were observed with follow up to 6 months clinically and radiological imaging.Result: In this study of 25 patients of age group 18yrs to 65yrs were treated with antibiotic coated Intramedullary inter locking nail, 80% cases were male and 20% cases were female. Mean time of union 16.5weeks.no implant related infection occurred only superficial infection found in two patients.Conclusion: the use of the antibiotic coated nail was good clinical and radiological outcome after 6 months. These prelimnary results support the use of antibiotic coated implants as a new potiential treatment option for prevention of infection in trauma patients.