AO EXTERNAL FIXATOR

A TREATMENT OPTION FOR OPEN TIBIAL DIAPHYSEAL FRACTURES (TYPE II, IIIA)

Abstract

Objectives: To appraise effectiveness of AO external fixator, a treatment method
for open diaphseal tibial fractures (type II, IIIA). Methods: Study Design: Cross sectional study.
Setting: Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology (DOST) Liaquat University of
Medical & Health Sciences Jamshoro. Period: Two year from 2009 to 2011. Total 40 cases of
open tibia fracture had selected all the cases with fresh open diaphyseal fractures of tibia and
patient arriving within one week injury. And Grade II, IIIA had included. All the cases associated
with head injury or abdominal injury, diabetic mellitus and liver or kidney disease had excluded.
Results: Total 40 cases of open diaphyseal fracture of tibia were selected in this study based
on inclusion criteria. The mean age was 33.1 + 10.27 years. Out of 40 cases, 36(90.0%) were
male. Majority of patients of RTA were injured due to motorcycle accidents 24(60.0%). Mean of
union time was 18.1 + 3.72 weeks. Wound became infected in 5(12.5%) cases, 5.0%, n = 40)
were seen with late union, screw sites infection found in 5.0% cases, Knee stiffness was found
in 10.0% cases, six 15.0% patients developed pain during walking. Conclusion: AO fixation
is very safe, insignificant intrusive, get short surgical time, following by hospital duration, low
infection rate and can be utilized as unequivocal and effective administration of open tibial
fractures.