Use of Custom-Made Antibiotic Coated Intra-Medullary Nail in Treatment of Infected Non-Union of Long Bones

Abstract

Introduction: In cases of infected Nonunion of long bones Antibiotic coated nail provides mechanical support for the affected bone with delivery of high concentration of antibiotics for infection control and a conclusive environment for fracture healing. The aim of the study was to observe and study the treatment of infected non-union of long bones with antibiotic coated nailing in infection control and bony union. Material and Method: The study was conducted on 30 patients (male and female between the age of 18‑70 years). All patient on admission were subjected to detailed history, relevant investigations and thorough clinical examinations. Minimum follow-up period was 6 months. Radiological and blood investigations were done for infection control and bony union. Result: In the current study of 30 patients with mean age of 43.67 years, Infection control and bony union was achieved in 27 patients without any need for subsequent procedures. Current study provides an alternative to external fixation alone as a means of stabilizing non-unions while providing a high concentration of antibiotic locally for combating this difficult problem. Conclusion: The clinical results and final outcome after antibiotic coated I.M. nailing in infected nonunion of long bones are both satisfactory and reproducible as evident by the comparison of this present study with the previous literature available.