|
East and Central African Journal of Surgery
Association of Surgeons of East Africa and College of Surgeons of East Central and Southern Africa
ISSN: 1024-297X EISSN: 1024-297X
Vol. 12, No. 2, 2007, pp. 72-76
|
Bioline Code: js07043
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
|
|
East and Central African Journal of Surgery, Vol. 12, No. 2, 2007, pp. 72-76
en |
Management of Segmental Tibial Fractures.
Motsitsi, N. S.
Abstract
Segmental tibial fractures are uncommon injuries that occur in about 12.8% of tibialfractures. They are commonly caused by high-energy trauma. It is estimated thatalmost 50% of these fractures are open. They are often part of multiple injuries. They are challenging to manage and have a significant complication rate.
Literature search retrieved very few articles (10) on the management of segmental tibial fractures. There has been a significant change in the management of these injuries. This has been made possible by the development of new Orthopaedic implants. Three currently favored methods of treatment are intramedullary locking nail , external Fixators (with their different constructs and versatility) and Plaster of Paris. It is important to note that more than two-thirds of segmental tibial fractures will require more than one surgical intervention. The surgeon therefore, needs to plan ahead to make subsequent surgical interventions possible.
There are no clear therapeutically- relevant guidelines regarding classification of segmental tibial fractures , treatment approaches and evaluation of functional outcome using validated scales. These are the crucial issues or challenges facing future clinical research studies.
|
|
© Copyright 2007 - East and Central African Journal of Surgery
|
|