TREATMENT OF FRACTURES OF THE LOWER LEG

From May 1990 to March 1992 17 open and 6 closed fractures of tibia an d fibula with second- to third-degree soft tissue injuries were treate d by external fixation using the Ilisarow technique. In 14 patients th is external fixation was used as the primary treatment. In nine cases it was used secondarily, mainly in patients transferred after stabiliz ation with other internal or external devices. The mean duration of fi xation for diaphyseal tibial fractures was 127 days and for metaphysea l fractures, 107 days. After removal of the fixation device, a brace w as temporarily fitted for full weight-bearing. Disadvantages observed include less comfort for the patient and longer operation time compare d to other external fixation systems. On the other hand, this method a llows full weight-bearing soon after the operation and involves minima l damage of soft tissue. Furthermore, injured soft tissue was well pro tected during healing.