Abstract
From March 1996 to March 1999, thirty two cases of comminuted tibial fractures were treated
with Ilizarov external fixator. 13 cases were closed fractures and 19 cases open fractures.
Among 19 open fractures, there were 3 cases of Gustilo type I, 10 cases of type II and 6 cases
of type III fractures. All the cases could not be initially treated by open reduction and internal
fixation because of open wound or severe comminution. Among 32 cases, 4 were tibial
condyles, 22 were tibial shafts, 6 were tibial plafonds. All the cases were followed up from a
minimum 12 months up to 35 months with an dverage of 22 months.
We obtained satisfactory bony union in ail cases with the average duration of 18.1 weeks.
Bone graft was done initially in two cases. Numerous complications were encountered, most
commonly, joint stiffness and pin tract infection were developed but they were treated well. To
avoid such complications, careful management was needed. According to Tuckers
clafsification, the result was graded as excellent in 8, good in 18, fair in 4 and poor in 2 cases.
We conclude that Ilizarov external fixatior is a very useful method for initial treatment in
getting reduction, maintenance of reduction, early ambulation and fracture healing in cases of
communited tibial fractures whether open or closed.