Locally developed external fixators as definitive treatment of open tibia diaphyseal fractures: a clinical prospective study conducted in Ivory Coast.

Background: This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of locally developed external fixators (LDEF) as definitive treatment for open tibia diaphyseal fractures (OTDF) in Ivory Coast.

Methods: Gustilo I, II, and IIIA OTDFs of patients admitted within 24 hours of injury were prospectively included and treated with LDEF. The rates of union, mal-union, septic complications, as well as the functional results were assessed, in addition to the LDEF construct's integrity.