A study to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of the Ilizarov ring fixator in the treatment of infected non-union fracture shaft of Tibia

Abstract

Introduction: Infected tibial non-union has always posed a challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. The primary aim of our study is to analyze the role of Ilizarov circular ring fixation in infected non-union tibia, to assess osteogenesis, infection rates, bony union, and limb lengthening along with functional outcomes and associated complications. Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics in Tertiary Care Centre of western India. A total 20 cases of infected non-union of diaphyseal # of Tibia with chronic discharging sinus of at least 3 months duration were included in our study. All procedures were performed after the patients had signed a written consent and after approval by the institutional ethical committee. Results: In our 20 cases, union was achieved in 19 cases. One patient required bone grafting and one patient had refracture. Union time ranged between 3 to 7 months. Smoking, persistent, infection, patient himself not able to walk, these factors affect the union. Early docking of the non-union site was observed to shorten the union time.