Management Option in Type-III-A Open Tibial Fractures

Abstract

The management of open tibial fractures remains a challenge for the Orthopaedic surgeons. The treatment modalities regarding the tibial shaft fractures are continuously in the process of modification. Of various treatment modalities available, external fixation and closed intra medullary nailing are two options. In this study we have compared the results of both treatment modalities in 30 cases (15 each). Comparable results were found in both the groups. Average time to union was 19.87 weeks for intra medullary nailing group and 22.13 weeks for the external fixator group. Delayed union was found in 3 cases in intra medullary nailing group and 5 cases in external fixator group. In our opinion both the methods can be recommended depending upon the experience of the surgeon, availability of Image  intensifier and socioeconomic conditions of the patients.