Evaluation of the orthopaedic trauma association open fracture classification (OTA-OFC) as an outcome prediction tool in open tibial shaft fractures.

Introduction: It was the goal of this study to determine if the Orthopaedic Trauma Association Open Fracture Classification (OTA-OFC) correlates with complication rates and to determine if it can be used as a predictive tool in the treatment of open tibial shaft fractures.

Materials And Methods: Retrospective review from two high-volume level 1 trauma centers of open tibial shaft fractures over a 5 year period. Variables of interest included OTA-OFC, type of wound closure, 90-day wound complication, unplanned re-operation, non-union, and amputation.

Soft tissue management in open tibial shaft fractures: A comparison of institutional preferences and resultant early clinical outcomes.

Aims: To compare results of institutional preferences with regard to treatment of soft tissues in the setting of open tibial shaft fractures.

Methods: We present a retrospective review of open tibial shaft fractures at two high-volume level 1 trauma centres with differing practices with regard to the acute management of soft tissues. Site 1 attempts acute primary closure, while site 2 prefers delayed closure/coverage.