Circular external fixation for revision of failed tibia internal fixation.

Background: The management of failed tibial fracture fixation remains a challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. This study investigate the utility and outcomes of circular external fixation in the management of failed internal fixation of tibial fractures.

Methods: Retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of a complex limb reconstruction unit at a major trauma centre was done during December 2022.

Circular external fixation for knee fusion in complex indications.

Purpose: Reconstructive surgery for complex knee problems is limited and challenging. The aim of this study is to report the technique, outcomes and complications of circular external fixation for knee fusion in complex indications.

Methods: Retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of a complex limb reconstruction unit was done during December 2022.

A comparative evaluation of the time to frame removal for tibia fractures treated with hexapod and Ilizarov circular frames.

Introduction: Traditional Ilizarov and hexapod frames have different biomechanical properties and there is limited literature regarding their effect on time to fracture union or time to frame removal.

Methods: Tibial fractures managed with a circular frame at a tertiary limb reconstruction referral centre between 2011 and 2018 were retrospectively identified from a prospectively maintained database. They were classified into three treatment groups; Ilizarov style, Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) and TrueLok Hex (TL-Hex).

The Incidence of Deep Infection Following Lower Leg Circular Frame Fixation with Minimum of 1-year Follow-up from Frame Removal.

Aim: Superficial pin site infection is a common problem associated with external fixation, which has been extensively reported. However, the incidence and risk factors with regard to deep infection are rarely reported in the literature. In this study, we investigate and explore the incidence and risk factors of deep infection following circular frame surgery.

Is a staged reloading protocol effective to time the removal of circular frames? : a retrospective analysis.

Aims: The timing of when to remove a circular frame is crucial; early removal results in refracture or deformity, while late removal increases the patient morbidity and delay in return to work. This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of a staged reloading protocol. We report the incidence of mechanical failure following both single-stage and two stage reloading protocols and analyze the associated risk factors.

Functional outcomes after tibial shaft fractures treated using the Taylor spatial frame.

Objectives: To analyze functional and radiologic outcomes of tibial shaft fractures treated with the Taylor spatial frame (TSF).

Design: Prospective follow-up study of radiologic and functional outcomes.

Setting: University teaching hospital.

The use of a spirit-level to improve radiograph quality in ring fixators.

The use of ring fixators in lower limb reconstruction and deformity correction both for trauma and elective procedures is now widespread. The long course of treatment requires regular outpatient review with frequent radiological imaging to assess the progression of treatment and plan correctional adjustment. Following publication of a technique using a frame mounted spirit-level to aid radiographers in accurately aligning the limb for optimal imaging we implemented a similar technique in our department and carried out a two part prospective comparative study to assess the impact on radiograph quality.