Short term outcome of Gustilo Anderson open type 3A mid shaft tibia fractures using intramedullary interlocking nail and external fixator

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of the present study is to assess the outcome of treating Gustilo Anderson open Type 3A mid shaft tibia fracture with intramedullary interlocking nail as well as external fixator. Methodology: In this prospective cohort study, adult patients (≥18 years-old) with Gustilo 3A open tibia shaft fractures treated by either intramedullary nail or external fixation (EF) were involved. This study was directed for a period of twelve months from March 2021 to February 2022. After registration, patients were followed-up at 2, 6, 10, 14, and 18 weeks postoperatively. At these appointments, degree of callus formation at fracture site and surgical problems (e.g. infection, limb length discrepancy, malalignment) were assessed. Results: Out of 50 patients registered in the study, 26 were treated by IM nail and 24 by external fixation. Twenty-four patients (92.3%) in the IM nail group and 6 (25%) in the external fixation group had callus formation by the 10th week. The mean times to callus formation in the IM nail group and external fixation group were 8.2±2.6 weeks and 14.7±3.3 weeks, individually (p=0.000). Two (7.7%) patients in the IM nail group and 3 (12.5%) in the external fixation group developed infection (p=0.661).