Open tibial shaft fracture in a boy with autism spectrum disorder treated using a ring external fixator: A case report

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder covers a group of behaviorally defined disorders that may result in the patient having difficulty staying calm during medical treatments, due to anxiety-related overreactions. Tibial fractures are the third most common pediatric long-bone fracture. Conservative treatment is selected in many cases, but surgical treatment may be selected in cases of open fracture and no treatment policy has been established. We described the case of a 6-year-old boy with autism spectrum disorder who was unable to stay calm due to anxiety and required sedation. We diagnosed open tibial shaft fracture (Orthopaedic Trauma Association classification 42A1, 4F2A; Gustilo classification type 1). On the day of injury, we performed osteosynthesis using a ring external fixator and primary closure of the open wound. Full weight-bearing was permitted from immediately after surgery. No significant complications were observed postoperatively, and the external fixator was removed 84 days postoperatively. No abnormal alignment of the lower leg, leg-length discrepancy or range of motion disorder was identified. To the best of our knowledge, no other reports have described use of a ring external fixator for open tibial shaft fractures in children with autism spectrum disorder. Using a ring external fixator appears helpful for open tibial shaft fractures in children who are unable to stay calm due to autism spectrum disorder, because there is no need to limit weight-bearing immediately after surgery. For Gustilo classification type 1 pediatric open fracture, primary closure of the open wound is safe after sufficient bone fixation.