To determine efficiency of Ilizarov's circular external fixator in form of the bone outcome and functional outcome in treatment of femoral and tibial nonunions

Abstract

Aim: planned to assess bone and functional outcome of Ilizarov's circular external fixator in treatment of femoral and tibial nonunion (infected and noninfected both). Material and methods: The present study is clinical prospective type of study conducted at Dr Hardas Singh Orthopaedic Hospital & Superspeciality Research Centre, Amritsar, Punjab. The present study included 15 cases, all managed with Ilizarov circular external fixator for isolated femoral or tibial nonunion after obtaining informed consent, clinical and radiological examination during a period of 24 months. After removal of frame, patient followed up regularly every month and we assessed them for bony and functional outcome. Results: The age of patients in present study was 22 to 55 years with mean age of 39.4 years. There were 3 (20%) femoral and 12 (80%) tibial nonunions that were operated with Ilizarov’s circular external fixator using ilizarov method’s. Road traffic accidents were the most common mode of injury accounting for 11 cases (73.3%). Fourteen patients had undergone fixation previously (plate osteosynthesis = 7, external fixators of the AO tubular type = 7) and one patient had been treated by traditional bonesetter bandages. According to ASAMI guidelines, bone outcome was excellent in 7 cases (46.6%), good in 5 cases (33.3%), fair in 2 (13.3%) cases and poor in 1 case (6.7%). Functional outcome was excellent in 3 cases (20%), good in 11 cases (73.3%), fair in no case and poor in 1 case (6.7%). But no patient required amputation. Conclusion: Ilizarov technique using circular external fixator is a good salvage operation for infected and noninfected nonunion of the femur and tibia both. Functional results can be improved by the early use of the Ilizarov technique.