1. Malik Mohammad Yasin Awan 2. Rashid Hussain 3. Ijaz Ahmed

1. Asstt. Prof. of Orthopedics, Gujranwala Medical College, Gujranwala 2. Medical Officer of Orthopedics, 

DHQ Teaching Hospital, Gujranwala 3. Asstt. Prof. GTTH, Lahore / LMDC, Lahore

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of open tibial shaft fractures (Gustilo IIIA/B) with AO External Fixator & to document complications

Study Design: Perspective study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conductedat DHQ teaching Hospital, Gujranwala& at Fazil Memorial Hospital, Gujranwala from November 2010 to November 2012

Material & Methods: 50 patients with open tibial shaft fractures were treated with AO External Fixator. Open fractures were classified according to Gustilo Anderson Criteria & wounds with IIIA & IIIB were selected. Outcome was determined by the rate of union, while nonunion, pin tract infection, pin loosening & osteomylitis were recorded as complications. The follow up period was 08 months. 

Results: Out of fifty cases of open tibial shaft fractures, 38 (76%) were men & 12 (24%) were Ladies. Mean age was 35.2 (8-67), 22 (44%) had Gustilo IIIB wound while 28 (56%) had Gustilo IIIA injuries. Pin tract infection & pin loosening rate were 12% & 16% respectively.  Nonunion was seen in 10% of the cases. In 41 (82%) of the cases   fracture united and average union time was about 26.5 weeks. No case of osteomylitis seen.  Conclusion: External Fixator is simple & effective treatment for open tibial fractures.

Key Words: Open Tibial Fractures, External Fixator, Gustilo Anderson’s Classification, Union

Citation of article: Awan MMY, Hussain R, Ahmed I. Outcome of AO External Fixator for Open Tibial