Study on role of fibular graft in non-union and complex fractures of long bone

Abstract

Background: Road traffic injuries are the seventh most common cause of long bone fractures. Following high velocity limb trauma, the defects in the long bone are usually associated with appreciable soft-tissue losses. These open long bone injuries always require multidisciplinary managements to reconstruct the composite defects of bone and soft tissue. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to find out radiological and clinical outcome, complications, and union time in complex and non-union fractures of long bone managed by fibular graft. Materials and Methods: Out of 50 cases, 40 cases were of complex fractures and ten cases were of non-union. We used Fibular strut grafts in reconstruction of bone defects and soft tissue injury. Results: Thirty (60.0%) had excellent functional outcome, 10 (20.0%) had good, 6 (12.0%) had satisfactory, and 4 (8.0%) patients had poor outcome. Main complications were non-union 2 cases and 3 cases of superficial wound infection, which subsided by wound dressing and intravenous antibiotic treatment. Conclusion: Free fibular grafting has been proven to be an ideal choice in the management of large segmental bone defects as well as in situations of biological failure of bone healing.

An evaluation of effectiveness of Ilizarov external fixation in treating infected non-union tibial fractures: a prospective observational study

“…11 The study by Singh et al further supports the effectiveness of free fibular grafting in managing large segmental bone defects and biological failure of bone healing. 12 Lastly, Rengerla et al details the successful use of intramedullary nailing combined with autologous fibular cortical and cancellous grafts for managing aseptic femoral non-union. 13 These studies collectively underscore the advancements in surgical techniques and approaches for treating complex limb injuries and non-unions, highlighting the importance of individualized patient care and the technical expertise required for optimal outcomes.…”