Open diaphyseal long bone fractures: a reduction method using devitalized or extruded osseous fragments

J Orthop Trauma. 2007 Sep;21(8):574-8. doi: 10.1097/BOT.0b013e3180980f26.

Abstract

Open diaphyseal and meta-diaphyseal fractures of the lower extremity remain therapeutically challenging. Currently accepted treatment methods consist of a thorough irrigation and debridement of nonviable tissue combined with locked intramedullary nailing. Although exact reduction parameters remain controversial, achievement of a satisfactory reduction becomes increasingly difficult with fracture comminution and overt bone loss. We describe the simple technique of using multiple associated devitalized tibial bone fragments to obtain an accurate reduction prior to intramedullary nailing. This technique can be extended to other long bone fractures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Nails
  • Bone Transplantation*
  • Femoral Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Femoral Fractures / surgery*
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / instrumentation*
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / methods
  • Fractures, Open / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Tibial Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Tibial Fractures / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome