Effectiveness of ilizarov frame fixation on functional outcome in aseptic tibial gap non-union

• Published in: Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association 2015-11, Vol.65 (11 Suppl 3), p.S179-S185
• Main Authors: Ahmad Khan, Rana Dawood, Maqbool, Muhammad Asif, Yasin, Ajmal
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bone diseases; Care and treatment
• ISSN: 0030-9982

The Objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of Ilizarov frame fixation on functional outcome in aseptic tibial gap non-union cases. In this clinical study, 15 cases of post-traumatic aseptic tibial gap non-union were selected in department of orthopedics, Allied Hospital Faisalabad, Punjab Pakistan, during years 2013-2014. After blood analysis and clinical assessment, the aseptic gap nonunion cases underwent ilizarov frame fixation for their problem. They were taught about care of ilizarov fixator and pin tract. They were called on regular basis and pre and post-surgery functional outcome was measured by modified functional evaluation system by Karlstrom-Olerud. Out of the 15 patients, 12 (80%) with road traffic accident, 2 (13.3 %) with gunshot injury and 1(6.66%) with fall from height; 9(60%) were treated by compression technique (fig.1,2,7,8,11), 4(2.66%) with compression-distraction (fig.3,10) and 2 (13.3 %) were treated using distraction-compression technique (bone transport) (fig.4,5,6). Mean gap was 6.33cm (range 2-12cm). Duration of tibial gap union was average 10.60 months (minimum 8 months, maximum 15 months) and union was achieved in all the cases in mean time of 25.20 weeks (minimum 13 weeks, maximum 57 weeks). Patients remained in ilizarov fixator frame for average 6.80 months (range minimum 4, maximum 13 months). Pin tract infection and pain were common Complications. The functional outcome was measured by modified functional evaluation system by Karlstrom-Olerud 5 showed good, 4 satisfactory, 4 moderate and 2 poor results. The Ilizarov technique is an effective method in treating the aseptic tibial gap non-union. Patient\'s motivation and co-operation played an important role in good to excellent outcomes.