Outcome of Bone Transport Using Ilizarov External Fixator in Infected Non-union of Tibia with Large Bone Defects: Comparison of Those with 5–10 cm Bone Defect with Those Having ≥ 11 cm Bone Defect

Ilizarov external fixation has become the treatment of choice for infected non-union of tibia. Varying degrees of bone loss and different strategies of treatment in the published reports make comparing outcomes difficult. This study hopes to bridge this gap in the literature by focussing exclusively on bone transport in patients with bone loss of 5 cm or more.

This is a prospective case series conducted at a tertiary level orthopaedic speciality hospital. Outcomes are measured by Association of the Study and Application of Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) bony scores, ASAMI functional scores, Lengthening Index and by assessing complications encountered.

There were 49 patients in this study with an average of 9.57 cm bone gap. Among these, 29 patients had a bone gap of 5–10 cm and 20 patients had a bone gap of ≥ 11 cm. According to the ASAMI bony score, 42 patients had excellent or good outcomes with two fair results and five poor results. The ASAMI functional scores were 45 excellent to good outcomes, four fair and no poor results or failures. Fixed flexion deformity of the knee of more than 5°, ankle stiffness and soft tissue interposition were significantly more frequent in those with bone gap of ≥ 11 cm. Trifocal transport and bone grafting at docking significantly improved the lengthening index.

Even massive bone defects of 11 cm or more can be reliably healed by bone transport using Ilizarov external fixation, but with a significantly higher rate of complications.

Level IV.