ILIZAROV TECHNIQUES

TO STUDY THE RESULTS OF INFECTED NONUNION OF TIBIA

Abstract

Objectives: 1. To assess the results of infected nonunion of tibia by Ilizarov
techniques. 2. To ascertain the incidence of complications and advise methods to prevent them.
3. To determine various risk factors which contribute to these complications. Study Design: This
descriptive case series. Setting: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dow University of Health
Sciences/ Civil Hospital Karachi. Period: 1st March 2010 to 28th Feb. 2013. Methods: A total of 30
patients with infected nonunion of tibia with or without shortening and bone loss was included
in the study. Patients lying in supine position, after spinal anesthesia, radical debridement were
done and all previous infected implants and necrotic bone removed, pre-assembled ilizarov
frame was applied with the help of four or five rings, each ring was fixed with k-wires and
schanz pins. Olive wires were used where interfragmentary compression, correction of axial
deviation of fragment, in osteoporotic bones, transport of fibular fragment or more stability was
required. Results: Results were divided into bony and functional parts by ASAMI. We achieve
excellent to good bony result in 86.66% (26/30) of cases and excellent to good functional result
in 76.66% (23/30) of cases. Conclusion: It is concluded that bony and functional outcome of
infected nonunion of tibia treated with ilizarov ring fixator is satisfactory. Although its application
is lengthy but once applied patients get benefits, they can start walking with full weight bearing,
limb length equality and soft tissue coverage achieved, so we recommend its applications in
such type of cases.