M. Nageshwara Rao1, A. M. Ilias Basha2, K. B. Vijaya Mohan Reddy3, G. Praneeth Kumar Reddy4
Distal tibial fractures represent a significant challenge to orthopaedicians. The low energy fractures get dramatic results with open reduction and internal fixation. But high energy fractures have a high amount of complications due to soft tissue coverage, skin necrosis, infections and also the usually comminuted nature of the fractures. Conservative treatment by cast application leads to prolonged immobilization, ankle and knee stiffness affecting quality of life of the patient. The Hybrid External Fixator combines the advantages of the monolateral pin fixators and the circular Ilizarov wire fixators. The tensioned wires provide improved fixation in the small distal cancellous fragment, as they have rapid and straight forward application, reduced surgical time and is minimally invasive. It is adjustable, hence reduction can be easily attained after frame assembly. With rigid fixation it also allows immediate mobilization of the knee and ankle joints and early weight bearing. Aim of this present study is to study and establish the results and functional outcome in surgical treatment of distal metaphyseal fractures of Tibia using a Hybrid External Fixator. MATRIALS AND METHODS: 25 patients with distal tibial metaphyseal fractures were studied from June 2010 to July 2012 in department of Orthopaedics, Government General Hospital, Kurnool and followed up for a period of 6-10 months. Ovadia and Beals1 scoring system of objective and subjective evaluation was used in this study to assess the results.
