Ilizarov external fixator effective in management of post-traumatic infected non-union of the humerus: study

Rajesh Rohilla et al conducted a study to evaluate the functional and clinico-radiological outcomes of management of septic non-union of the humeral fractures managed with hybrid ring fixator. The study has been published in ‘Indian journal of orthopedics.’

A total of 18 patients with post-traumatic infected non-union of humerus were included. The mean age was 30.8 years and mean duration of presentation after injury was 19.1 weeks. Mean follow-up duration was 28.11 months and mean time of fixator removal was 25.28 weeks. Bone and functional results were evaluated using the modified Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) criteria, and disability of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores.

The key findings of the study were:

• Thirteen out of 18 patients had positive culture of Staphylococcus aureus and 5 patients had either contamination (mix growth) or quiescent (not detected) growth in infected tissues.

• Average duration of final follow-up was 28.11 months (12–51 months).

• Mean duration of fixation was 25.28 weeks (22–30 weeks).

• Bone union was achieved primarily in 16 (88.8%) patients.