Functional outcome of Ilizarov ring fixation in infected non-union tibia: A prospective study

Abstract

Bone loss and sequestration are the two difficult situations in infected nonunion of Tibia, which poses many challenges in its treatment. Evaluation of functional recovery and bone healing in infected non-union of tibial diaphysis treated by Ilizarov method. 20 patients with infected nonunion of tibial shaft fractures. All patients had undergone previous surgeries and they were treated by sequestrectomy, soft tissue debridement and stabilization by Ilizarov. Those had bone defect were treated by cortectomy and bone lengthening as well. Functional evaluation was performed by the timed performance tests of walking speed, sit-to-stand, stair climbing and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS). Union achieved in all cases. Functional recovery could be achieved over short time after the Ilizarov ring removal. The improvements were faster and statistically very much significant (p value 0.0001). Infected non-unions of tibia can be effectively treated by Ilizarov ring fixation. The observation of delayed recovery is valued for advising similar patients about the expected period of functional recovery and to continue the stretching and strengthening exercises during this period.