External Fixation Research Articles

Intramedullary nailing of coated and uncoated nails in infected tibial pseudarthrosis : Results of aretrospective examination of 56patients

In surgery for sepsis it is a well-established principle that no internal osteosynthetic material should be implanted in cases of chronic osteomyelitis. Therefore, the surgical treatment with intramedullary nails is so far used only rarely in cases of chronic osteomyelitis. This study analyzed whether the implantation of tibial intramedullary nails is an effective treatment for chronic osteomyelitis and how high is the rate of reinfection. A retrospective analysis of patients with an infected pseudarthrosis of the tibia in whom agentamycin-coated nail (ETN) or an uncoated tibial intramedullary nail (UCN) was implanted between December 2011 and December 2019 was carried out. The preoperative, perioperative and postoperative results were evaluated. During the study period 29 patients received a UCN and 27 patients received an ETN. Of the patients 95% (n = 53) had been previously unsuccessfully treated with external fixation. Postoperative complications occurred in 45% of the patients and more often in the ETN group (48% vs.41%). Reexacerbation of the infection occurred in 20 patients and more frequently in the UCN group (38% vs. 33%). The nonunion already showed abony consolidation at the time of the exacerbation in 10patients (50%). At the end of the follow-up aconsolidation was present in 48patients (86%), more frequently in the UCN group (90% vs.78%). Of the patients 50 (89%) reached full weight bearing without any differences between the groups. Despite arelatively high arate of postoperative complications the risk of reinfection was acceptable with good functional and radiological results. The main general advantages of nailing are without doubt the high primary stability, the implantation with preservation of the soft tissue and the improved wearing comfort for patients.

Differentiated Approach to Surgical ­Treatment of Gunshot Diaphyseal Shin Fractures

Background. The roots of problems in the treatment of gunshot fractures to extremities lay in the high-energetic character of these traumas, the frequency of infectious complications, high rate of slow consolidations, and occurrence of pseudoarthroses and bone tissue lesions. Objective. The objective of the study was to improve the treatment results of patients with gunshot fractures of the shin bones based on the development of a differentiated approach to the treatment of such injuries. Material and Methods. The study is based on the results of examination and treatment of 128 patients with dominant combat shin traumas. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group (control group) included 68 patients who underwent treatment with an external fixation device (EFD). The second group (study group) included 60 patients who underwent the extrafocal osteosynthesis replaced by an internal, mostly intramedullary one. To assess the functional outcomes of treatment, we applied the LEFS (Lower Extremity Functional Scale) in the dynamics of the therapy, namely in 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after the injury. Results. Mean values in both groups during the first two to three weeks showed no statistically significant difference, and their average score according to the LEFS scale was 15.75 points. The most significant differences were observed in the period from 6 to 12 months after the injury, 39.4±2.4 (EFD) and 57.3±2.1 (intramedullary nailing). After 18 months, excellent results showed 20.7% of patients from the study group and 15.8% of the control group (61 – 80 LEFS scores). Good results had 43.2% and 33.1%, respectively (41 – 60 LEFS scores). 28.1% and 39.3%, respectively, showed satisfactory results (21 – 40 LEFS scores). Poor results showed 8.0% of patients of the study group and 11.8% of the control group (p<0.05). Conclusions. The analysis of treatment outcomes of patients with gunshot diaphyseal shin fractures demonstrates that conversion, when used according to indications and following criteria to the replacement of the method of fixation, reduces the incidence of complications in both the early and late postoperative periods, fastens consolidation of gunshot diaphyseal shin fractures by 4.5±2.3 weeks, reduces the frequency of fracture consolidation disorders by 10.6%, and improves the functional results of the patients by 15.0%.

ANALYSIS OF OPEN REDUCTION AND INTERNAL FIXATION (ORIF) IN COLLES' FRACTURE

Colles fracture, first described in 1814, is characterized by the dorsal displacement of the distal radius fragment and is highly prevalent, particularly among elderly patients. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) in treating Colles fractures, focusing on functional outcomes and postoperative quality of life. An integrative literature review and comparative analysis of studies on ORIF and other treatment methods were conducted using Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science as indexing tools. Articles were selected using the keywords “Colles Fracture, Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, Functional Outcomes, Postoperative Complications.” The review highlights that ORIF generally provides superior functional outcomes and fewer complications in various fractures, such as those of the humerus, tibial pilon, calcaneus, and unstable distal radius fractures, compared to less invasive methods like external fixation (EF). However, EF shows advantages in specific cases, such as shorter surgical time and fewer perioperative complications. Moreover, the studies indicate that risk factors like diabetes, fracture severity, lack of drainage, and bone graft usage increase the risk of complications in ORIF. Additionally, minimally invasive techniques can reduce pain and enhance functional recovery in certain fractures, such as patellar fractures, when compared to ORIF.

Outcome of Bone Transport Using Ilizarov External Fixator in Infected Non-Union of Tibia with Large Bone Defects: Comparison of Those with 5–10 cm Bone Defect with Those Having ≥ 11 cm Bone Defect

Outcome of Bone Transport Using Ilizarov External Fixator in Infected Non-Union of Tibia with Large Bone Defects: Comparison of Those with 5–10 cm Bone Defect with Those Having ≥ 11 cm Bone Defect

Canine pillar bone bearing traction method of skull external fixator combined with nickel-titanium memory alloy spring for unilateral cleft lip and palate with severe facial skeletal hypoplasia

Background: For unilateral cleft lip and palate severe midfacial skeletal dysplasia, external skull fixator combined with nickel titanium memory alloy spring was used to treat canine pillar bone bearing traction. Methodology: Patients (n = 200) with unilateral cleft lip and palate and severe midfacial skeletal hypoplasia who were treated in our hospital within three years were divided into control group (treated with trans suture traction osteogenesis) while the observation group was treated with skull external fixator combined with nickel titanium memory alloy spring supporting force traction of canine bone. Results: After applying significantly different traction forces to the maxillary tissues on both sides of the patient, the patient was treated with appropriate traction correction, orthodontic treatment and moderate traction on the facial arch to effectively reduce the recurrence of the disease after surgery. Compared with the control group, the curative effect in all aspects was better and the asymmetry rate was lower. Conclusion: Canine strut bone traction method of external skull fixation combined with nickel-titanium memory alloy spring was applied for severe facial skeletal dysplasia caused by unilateral cleft lip and palate. For this purpose, reasonable and scientific treatment methods were provided for early correction and treatment of the disease. Keywords: External fixator of skull; nickel titanium memory alloy spring; bone bearing traction of canine pillar; unilateral cleft lip and palate; severe midfacial skeletal dysplasia; clinical research.

Anterior Slope-Modifying Osteotomies Alter the Length Change Behavior of the Superficial Medial Collateral Ligament: A Biomechanical Study.

Increased tibial slope has been shown to lead to higher rates of anterior cruciate ligament graft failure. A slope-decreasing osteotomy can reduce in situ anterior cruciate ligament force and may mitigate this risk. However, how this procedure may affect the length change behavior of the medial ligamentous structures is unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of anterior slope-modifying osteotomies on the medial ligamentous structures. It was hypothesized that (1) decreasing the tibial slope would lead to shortening of the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL), (2) while the fibers of the posterior oblique ligament (POL) would be unaffected. Descriptive laboratory study. Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric knee specimens underwent anatomic dissection to precisely identify the medial ligamentous structures. The knees were mounted in a custom-made kinematics rig with the quadriceps muscle and iliotibial tract loaded. An anterior slope-modifying osteotomy was performed and fixed using an external fixator, which allowed modification of the wedge height between -15 and +10 mm in 5-mm increments. Threads were mounted between pins positioned at the anterior, middle, and posterior parts of the tibial and femoral attachments of the sMCL and POL. For different tibial slope modifications, length changes between the tibiofemoral pin combinations were recorded using a rotary encoder as the knee was flexed between 0° and 120°. All sMCL fiber regions shortened with slope reduction (P < .001) and lengthened with slope increase (P < .001), with the anterior sMCL fibers more affected than the posterior sMCL fibers. A 15-mm anterior closing-wedge high tibial osteotomy (ACWHTO) resulted in a 6.9% ± 3.0% decrease in the length of the anterior sMCL fibers compared with a 3.6% ± 2.3% decrease for the posterior sMCL fibers. A 10-mm anterior opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (AOWHTO) increased anterior sMCL fiber length by 5.9% ± 2.3% and posterior sMCL fiber length by 1.6% ± 1.0%. The POL fibers were not significantly affected by a slope-modifying osteotomy. Tibial slope-modifying osteotomies changed the length change pattern of the sMCL such that an AOWHTO increased whereas an ACWHTO decreased the sMCL strain. This effect was most pronounced for the anterior fibers of the sMCL. The length change pattern of the POL remained unaffected by slope-modifying osteotomy. Surgeons should be aware that anterior tibial slope-modifying osteotomies affect the biomechanics of the sMCL. After an extensive ACWHTO, patients may develop a medial or anteromedial instability, while an AOWHTO may overconstrain the medial compartment.

Timing of Fracture Fixation in Ankle Fracture-Dislocations.

Ankle fracture-dislocations may require delayed internal fixation. Our aim was to compare acute open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with delayed ORIF, using external fixation or cast splint in ankle fracture-dislocations. Factors that affect the rates of re-operation and Surgical site infection (SSI) were identified. In this retrospective cohort study, patients were included with open and closed ankle fracture-dislocations treated with ORIF from two large peripheral hospitals and one academic center in the Netherlands. This study included 447 patients with an ankle fracture-dislocation. In the multivariate analysis, the difference between surgery <48 hours compared to bridging with cast or external fixation had no significant influence on unscheduled re-operation or SSI. Higher body mass index (BMI) and open fractures had a significant positive correlation with re-operation while diabetes mellitus (DM) and open fractures correlated with SSI. In patients with open fractures, there was also no significant difference in outcome between acute or delayed internal fixation. We suggest that it is safe to perform primary ORIF on all dislocated ankle fractures if the soft tissue injury allows surgery within 48 hours. When significant swelling is present, patients with well-reduced fractures and with no soft tissue injury could be treated safely with a cast until delayed ORIF is possible.Level of Evidence: Therapeutic level 2B (retrospective cohort study).

Observation on the effect of reconstruction of the forearm rotation function with an external fixator in the treatment of congenital radioulnar synostosis

PurposeTo observe the effect of the forearm rotation function reconstruction with an external fixator in treating congenital radioulnar synostosis.MethodsFrom July 2017 to July 2023, 6 patients (9 sides) with congenital radioulnar synostosis who underwent reconstruction of the forearm rotation with the external fixator were retrospectively analyzed. The extent of flexion and rotation, the Modified An and Morrey functional rating index, and the grade according to the classification system proposed by Failla et al. were compared before and after the operation.ResultsAll patients were followed up for an average of 12.00 (8.00, 38.50) months. The average range of rotation, the Modified An and Morrey functional rating index increased from 0°, 64.56 ± 1.33 points to 85.00° ± 25.86°, 83.71 ± 5.50 points, respectively. The differences were statistically significant (t = 9.86, P < 0.01, t = 11.20, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in forearm flexion before and after the operation (Z = 1.34, P = 0.18). According to the Failla classification system, 2 forearms were classified as poor preoperatively, 6 as fair and 1 as good. 2 forearms were assessed as excellent, 6 as good and 1 as fair during the last follow-up.ConclusionReconstruction of the forearm rotation function with an external fixator is safe and effective for treating congenital radioulnar synostosis. This technique can restore the partial rotational function of the forearm.

Ilizarov fixator as salvage procedure after frustrating arthrodesis using intramedullary nailing - is there a chance of consolidation?

Arthrodesis of the tibiotalar and subtalar joints is a salvage procedure that has been used successfully for years. Treatment options include internal procedures and external procedures. Retrograde intramedullary nailing is considered a safe procedure with a high degree of stability and comfort. Nevertheless, there are cases in which this internal arthrodesis fails and another procedure must be considered. Ilizarov fixator treatment could be a solution for those patients in whom intramedullary nailing has failed. Even if it means another surgical revision - is it possible to finally achieve consolidation with this method? In this single-center, retrospective study all documents of patients who underwent tibiotalar and subtalar joints fusion using the Ilizarov external fixator at our institution from 2003 to 2023 as secondary treatment after frustrated first arthrodesis using an intramedullary nail were reviewed. Nineteen patients (17 men and 2 women), with an average age of 55.7 (standard deviation (SD) 8.7, range 34-75) years were included. On average, 1.7 (SD 1.3, range 1-6) arthrodesis attempt were performed before final Ilizarov fixator arthrodesis. The average time spent in the Ilizarov fixator was 19 (SD 4, range 14-29) weeks. In seven cases (36.8%), both the tibiotalar and subtalar joints received bony consolidation in the end. If patients have undergone fusion of the tibiotalar and subtalar joints with a retrograde nail and this fails, it is difficult to achieve complete consolidation in the further course. A further attempt at arthrodesis using an Ilizarov fixator is possible, but the overall results are also poor. This procedure must therefore be seen as a last resort before amputation.

Comparing Multipin Clamps With Outriggers With Standard Clamps for Lower Extremity Periarticular External Fixation: Similar Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes.

Staged treatment of high-energy periarticular tibia fractures involves temporization with closed reduction and external fixation, aiming to provide early reduction and stabilization while mitigating soft-tissue complications. Various external fixator configurations exist, including those that use a "multipin" clamp capable of holding multiple pins but limiting pin placement to a single plane. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes and associated costs of standard and multipin outrigger clamp constructs in tibial plateau and pilon fractures treated with temporary external fixation. We hypothesized that use of the multipin clamp may be associated with poorly aligned reductions and increased complication rates. A retrospective review of 100 patients with periarticular tibial plateau (AO/OTA: 41B/C) or pilon (43B/C) fracture at a Level 1 trauma center from 2014 to 2023 was conducted. Patient, injury, and complication characteristics were collected. Patients were categorized based on the external fixator clamp used: multipin (MP) or standard (S). Clinical outcomes and complication rates were assessed. Radiographic alignment was evaluated by the change in anterior and lateral distal tibial angles, and sagittal plane translation for pilon fractures, and medial and posterior proximal tibial angles for plateau fractures. 70 patients underwent standard (25 pilon, 45 plateau) and 30 multipin (10 pilon, 20 plateau) external fixation. MP and S groups showed no notable differences in demographics or injury characteristics. Both groups demonstrated comparable complication rates and radiological alignment outcomes, with no notable differences observed. MP constructs were more costly than standard systems. In this retrospective study of 100 patients, there was no difference in radiographic or clinical outcomes between the standard frame and multipin frame groups. Typical costs for the multipin frame constructs were $635 to $1249 more than the standard frame constructs.

Nonunion of the distal one-fourth of the tibia treated by retrograde tibial intramedullary nail.

To evaluate the effectiveness of retrograde tibial intramedullary nail (RTN) in addressing nonunion in the distal one-fourth of the tibia. This retrospective study included consecutive patients who were treated with RTN for nonunion in the distal one-fourth of the tibia between December 2020 and August 2023. Data regarding age, sex, injury mechanism, fracture type, initial fixation method, nonunion duration and type, risk factors, surgical duration, hospital stay, time to bone union, ankle function at final follow-up, and any complications were extracted from hospital records and analysed. Five patients in total were included, with previous treatments comprising locking plates and/or external fixation. The mean duration of RTN surgery was 94.0 ± 13.7 min, and mean duration of hospital stay was 9.8 ± 1.9 days. Patients were monitored for 10-18 months post RTN, achieving complete bone healing within a mean of 4.8 months. At the latest follow-up, the mean American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 84.4 ± 6.8 (range, 77-95). No complications, such as infection, reoperation, implant issues, rotational deformity, or shortening were reported. RTN emerges as a dependable, minimally invasive, and safe treatment modality for managing nonunion in the distal one-fourth of the tibia.

Improving external fixator pin site care through user involvement: A quality improvement project

IntroductionExternal fixation is widely used in treating complex fractures and limb reconstruction. Pin site infections remain a significant complication, impacting on patients' physical and psychosocial wellbeing. This clinical improvement project at a University Hospital in Denmark aimed to enhance pin site care by involving patients and caregivers throughout the treatment pathway. BackgroundAt our hospital, approximately 55 trauma patients are annually treated with lower limb external fixators. Pin site care is crucial for preventing serious infections/osteomyelitis and involves collaboration between hospital and municipal caregivers. Traditional pin site care in our unit was complex and time-consuming, causing patient anxiety and frequent unplanned clinic visits. MethodsInspired by the Participatory Design research methodology, a quality improvement project was conducted in three phases: (1) identifying users’ needs, (2) developing solutions collaboratively, and (3) testing/evaluating these solutions. Iterative cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting were employed, facilitating mutual learning among participants. Interviews with patients, families and healthcare professionals and field observations both at the hospital and in the municipality were conducted. Inspiration was sought from international literature. ResultsPhase 1 identified the need for improved education about infection recognition, a less painful and time-consuming dressing method, and an assessment tool for pin site infection. Phase 2 involved extensive user input to develop and implement a new dressing procedure using PolyMem™ along with an assessment tool. Phase 3 evaluated the new methods, revealing reduced patient pain, fewer clinic visits, and stable infection rates as well as less time-consuming pin site care. ConclusionThe project successfully enhanced pin site care, involving users in developing a new care process, thus improving patient satisfaction and care efficiency. Implications for future practiceIncorporating patient perspectives and collaborative methods can significantly improve clinical care pathways. Future efforts should focus on further integrating patient centered and participatory approaches in healthcare improvements.

Pantarsal arthrodesis stabilized with circular external skeletal fixators in 8 dogs (2010-2022).

To report the surgical technique, complications, and outcomes of 8 dogs that underwent a unilateral pantarsal arthrodesis stabilized using a circular external skeletal fixator (CESF) construct for the treatment of uni- or multilevel tarsal instability. 8 dogs. Medical records from 2010 to 2023 from 2 small animal hospitals were retrospectively reviewed for dogs undergoing pantarsal arthrodeses stabilized with CESF. Data collected for each dog included signalment, injury etiology, construct configuration, radiographic imaging, antimicrobial use, complications, length of time until construct removal, and outcome based on clinical evaluation by the owner and veterinary surgeon. 8 dogs met the requirements of inclusion for the study. Dogs had a mean age of 5.5 years (range, 0.42 to 13 years) and weight of 15.1 kg (range, 2.5 to 26.4 kg). Angulated 3- and 4-ring constructs were used in 5 and 3 dogs, respectively, with or without hybridization. Tarsi were stabilized with a mean angle of extension of 124.8° (range, 111.5° to 136.5°). Fixator removal was performed at a mean time of 11.3 weeks (range, 6 to 16 weeks). Complications developed in 4 dogs, 2 of which had poor clinical outcomes despite additional interventions, including recurrent digit trauma and poor limb use postoperatively. Six dogs had excellent outcomes. A CESF may be considered as an alternative to plate stabilization when performing a pantarsal arthrodesis. This fixation requires rigorous postoperative care but obviates the need for supplemental postoperative coaptation.

An Improvised External Ventricular Drain Fixation Technique to Avoid Pullout-Related Complications in a Low-Resource Setting: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in a Single Center of Nepal.

An external ventricular drain (EVD) placement is a commonly performed life-saving procedure. Its accidental pullout can occur in complex environments, patient care, and positioning, which leads to significant morbidity. The method of EVD fixation and pullout rates is sparsely described in the literature, and there exists a wide variation among the techniques practiced for fixation. However, some techniques require additional tools, which are expensive and unavailable in low-resource settings. We describe an improvised method of securely fixing the EVD to the scalp applicable in low-resources and describe the EVD pullout rate with the use of this technique. A retrospective review of pullout-related complications in 107 consecutive patients was performed. The EVD was fixed to the scalp using an improvised technique to loop the catheter around a soft flange and secure it with sutures. Pullout occurred in 1 patient (0.93%), who was in an alcohol withdrawal state and deliberately pulled out the catheter. There were zero nondeliberate pullouts. EVD fixation by coiling the catheter around a soft flange has a low pullout rate. Because it is secure and requires only a flange, it is suitable for low-resource settings.

Reconstruction of bone defects around the ankle with retrograde gentamicin-coated tibial intramedullary nail (ETN PROtect™) for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis: a case series.

The objective of this study was to describe the use of retrograde gentamicin-coated tibial intramedullary nail (ETN PROtect™) in patients with tibial defects who required a tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTC). Consecutive series case review of seven men treated with TTC using retrograde PROtect™ between January 2018 and December 2023. The main outcomes evaluated were fracture union, complications, and the health-related quality of life using the EuroQol five-dimension three-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L). The mean age was 45.3 8.0years. Six patients had a clinical history of chronic osteomyelitis, and one case underwent TTC for congenital pseudoarthrosis. Fracture union was achieved in 5 of 7 patients between 4 and 11months after surgery. Three patients developed complications; two patients had fistulas, and one had persistent pain. At the end of the follow-up, a median of 70 points (interquartile range: 60 to 90) on the EQ-5D-3L was reported. No complications directly attributed to the use of the PROtect™ were reported. TTC with retrograde PROtect™ is a prophylactic treatment option in patients with tibial defects treated with external fixation requiring a tibiotalar and subtalar arthrodesis. This novel use of PROtect™ allows simultaneous fixation of the tibiotalocalcaneal joint and protection of the regenerated bone, facilitating earlier rehabilitation in patients at high risk for postoperative infections.

Comparing The Efficiency and Outcome of Syringe External Fixators and K-Wire Fixation in Unstable Hand Fractures

Comparing The Efficiency and Outcome of Syringe External Fixators and K-Wire Fixation in Unstable Hand Fractures

Trace element selenium–augmented Kirschner wire with enhanced osteogenetic and antibacterial properties

The Kirschner wire (K-wire) is widely used in orthopedic external fixation due to its versatility and clinical effectiveness. However, a significant challenge associated with its use is the potential for bacterial migration, subsequent infection, and dislodgement as the wire penetrates the skin and bone. This study introduces a novel bioactive material, selenium/calcium silicate (Se/β-CS), achieved by integrating selenium—an essential trace element in the human body—into bioceramic calcium silicate. This integration was accomplished using a combined chemical co-deposition method and redox reaction. Furthermore, a uniform and controllable Se/β-CS coating was applied to the K-wire's surface using the Langmuir-Blodgett technique. This coating gradually releases active components—Si, Ca, and Se—that effectively eliminate bacterial infections and promote osteointegration. The findings of this study offer promising opportunities for the use of robust and multifunctional coating materials on implantable devices, particularly within the fields of orthopedics, transplantation, and surgery.

Salvage of a comminuted proximal tibial polymicrobial infected non-union with antibiotic loaded bio-composite and intramedullary nailing: a case report

Background. Management of open proximal metaphyseal fractures poses a significant challenge and is fraught with complications. These injuries are severe, often accompanied by extensive soft tissue and vascular damage, leading to high risks of infection and long-term disability. Case presentation. A 72-year-old male was severely injured in a road traffic accident. Plain X-rays and CT angiogram identified a comminuted proximal tibial fracture with transection of the popliteal artery and vein. Initial emergency treatment included fasciotomies, external fixation, and vascular primary repair. On the 12th day of admission, the patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with dual plate fixation using a two incision technique. A plastic surgeon performed skin grafting, harvested from the patient’s thigh, to allow closure of his fasciotomy wounds immediately following ORIF. Four weeks post-operatively, the patient developed a wound breakdown over the lateral fasciotomy site, exposing the metal plates with a small defect developing on the medial fasciotomy wound in tandem. The patient’s course was further complicated by persistent polymicrobial infections. Over 6 months of antibiotic regimes, operative intervention was ultimately required. All of the infected metal implants were removed, the non-union sites were aggressively debrided. The tibial canal was reamed to prepare for a tibial nailing. An antibiotic loaded bio-composite was then inserted through the non-union sites into the canal followed by an intramedullary nail. A blocking screw was used to address the procurvatum deformity in the sagittal plane. The patient currently shows signs of recovery, mobilizing over short distances, weight-bearing with assistive aids and with healing wounds and early signs of callus formation on recent CT scans and plain X-rays. Conclusions. The management of complex tibial fractures with vascular involvement demands an aggressive multidisciplinary approach and continuous adaptability in treatment plans to address the evolving challenges of such severe injuries. This case exemplifies the utility of injectable antibiotic-loaded bio-composites in a limb-salvage setting and their ability to provide high doses of local antibiotics to an infection site which, in conjunction with appropriate stable fixation and systemic antibiotics, can aid in eradicating and treating fracture-related infections.

Distraction of longitudinally split fragments using the Ilizarov method: a series of clinical cases of treating partial bone defects

Background. The Ilizarov method is a recognized technique for treating severe skeletal injuries, allowing for a comprehensive restoration of both bone and soft tissue components. Despite the fact that bone lengthening and transport are widely known techniques, distraction of a longitudinally split fragment is still used extremely rarely. The aim of the study is to describe a series of clinical cases involving patients operated on using this technique. Methods. We present a series of observations of five patients who underwent distraction of a longitudinally split fragment using the Ilizarov method between January 2006 and December 2022. Clinical information was obtained from case histories, all surgical interventions were documented. Postoperative examination was performed using radiography. Results. A case series demonstrates the successful application of this technique for reconstruction of partial bone defects resulting from trauma or osteomyelitis. The study included five patients (4 men and 1 woman) who underwent surgery 4.8-34.0 months after trauma for a partial defect of the proximal tibia ranging from 4 to 8 cm in length. Distraction was performed in different directions along the sagittal and longitudinal axes. The time of external fixation ranged from 3.5 to 4.8 months, the external fixation index ranged from 0.49 to 1.22. The ASAMI (Association for the Study and Application of the Methods of Ilizarov) functional score at the follow-up examination was excellent in all five patients. The ASAMI bone tissue assessment showed excellent results in all patients, except for one patient with residual equinus (good result). No other complications were reported. Conclusions. The Ilizarov method provides a minimally invasive and comprehensive approach to the elimination of partial bone defects, affecting simultaneously the skeletal and soft tissue components. Due to the longitudinal splitting during fragment transport and distraction osteogenesis, this method promotes bone and tissue regeneration and helps to avoid a volumetric bone defect and more complex segmental bone transport. Moreover, the role of transverse transport of the tibial cortex increases in the treatment of peripheral arterial diseases.

History and formation of “Limb lengthening and reconstruction surgery — LLRS” as a subspecialty of orthopedic surgery

In 1998, the first meeting of members of the Association for the Study and Application of the Methods of Ilizarov (ASAMI) was held in the USA to introduce and popularize the methods developed in Kurgan by Professor G. Ilizarov and his staff. During 2005-2016, other communities worked in parallel with ASAMI, which went beyond the use of only the Ilizarov apparatus. Since 2017, the joint meetings have been called “Combined congress of the ASAMI-BR and ILLRS societies”. This actually became the basis for the definition of “Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction Surgery (LLRS)” as a subspecialty of orthopedic surgery that treats patients with nonunions, congenital and acquired long bone, large joints deformities of the upper and lower extremities. LLRS is based on the Ilizarov method and discovery (“Ilizarov effect”) with the rational use of external and internal fixation, osteotomy and soft tissue procedures. It takes at least three years for an orthopedic surgeon to become a specialist in the field of LLRS, and the education must be staged. A significant role in this is played by the ASAMI-BR ILLRS congresses, ExFix LLRS courses held in many countries, ExFix modules integrated into courses provided as part of the education of AO Trauma, as well as extensive world literature.