Objective: We evaluated the results of patients who were treated with Ilizarov hybrid external fixator for type IIIB open tibial fractures.
Materials and methods: 35 Gustilo grade IIIB tibial fractures of age between 18 to 42 years (22 male and 13 female) in which 12 distal fourth tibia (D/4) of C1.1 (6), C1.3 (6), 12 upper fourth Tibia (U/4) of A2 (8) and A3 (4) according to AO classification and 11 Tibial plateau fractures of Schatzker type VI (5) , V(5), IV(1) . All tibial plateau, proximal fourth fractures and lower fourth fractures of tibia and fibula (Reversed Hybrid), treated with Ilizarov hybrid fixator using two Ilizarov 5/8 rings and AO External fixator were followed up to 12-52 months.
Results: D/4 fractures were united at 31.16678.3046 wks, U/4 at 24.005.2915 and Tibial plateau at 15.5454.160 weeks (p-0.00). ROM in tibial plateau type IV 130 degrees +/- 00, type V 124 degrees +/- 8.94 degrees, type VI 125 degrees +/- 7.0711 degrees, D/4 of type C1.1 (50 degrees +/- 0.00), type C1.3 (43 degrees +/- 5.7755) whereas full ROM in U/4 fractures. Pin tract infection occurred in 21% of cases. Pain on walking in 20% of cases of type VI tibial plateau fractures and 80% of cases of type IV and V. Problem free in rest of parameter of function of VI and 100% problem in IV and V. Pain at rest observed in 20% of cases in type V. In 66.67% U/4 fractures had pain on walking but no other functions were compromised. In 33% D/4 fractures of C1.1 type had pain on walking only and had 1cm of shortening.
Conclusion: On the basis of our experience, we suggest adopting this method for functional limb salvage after extensive complex high-energy injuries. This fixator is safe and versatile, effective in providing stability and allowing early rehabilitation, although the indications for its use are very relatively specific.