To asses the union time and pin track infection rate in ilizarov fixator using the Russian and rancho hybrid fixation technique

Abstract

Introduction: The treatment of complex proximal tibial fractures with ilizarov external fixators is slowly gaining more popularity and acceptability in traumatology, complex tibial plateau fractures pose a significant risk of soft tissue problems, edema and compartment syndrome, its management throws a great challenge. These fractures were treated with ilizarov external fixators. Materials and Methods: The prospective study was conducted in JSS Medical College and Hospital over a period of April 2016 to September 2017. A total of 30 patients who were treated with ilizarov ring external fixator for schatzkers type V and VI tibial plateau fractures were included in the study, each patients were randomly assigned to be treated with two methods, the Russian technique and the Rancho hybrid fixation technique, these patients were followed up and their data with regard to fracture union time and pin tract infections were collected in a Microsoft excel and the results were scrutinised. Results: There was a predominantly male population and the road traffic accidents was the most common followed by self-fall, The mean union time was 18.27+_1.79 weeks in the Russian technique and 23.47+_2.72 weeks in the rancho hybrid system the union time was assessed using the RUST criteria and The Rancho technique pin tract infection rate was 20% and it was 26.67% in the Russian technique, the incidence of pin tract infection was even though a little higher in the Russian technique the difference was not statistically significant (OR1.45(0.26-8.1)p0.5) the pin track infection was graded using the checkers and buns. Conclusion: the ilizarov Russian technique fares over the rancho hybrid fixation technique in achieving union earlier by enhancing the micromotion at the fracture site being a less rigid construct. Keywords: Ilizarov fixator, Russian technique, Rancho technique, Schatzkers type V and VI fractures, Union time, Pin tract infections.