Treatment of comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur using Ilizarov method

Yoo, Myung Chul; Cho, Yoon Je; Kim, Ki Tack; Chun, Young Soo; Pyo, Na Sil; Kim, Sung Gun

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Ilizarov method as a treatment of open or comminuted supracondylar fractures which are uncommon, and difficult to manage because of the wide range of potential complications.
MATERIALS and METHODS
Between 1992 and 1999, we treated open or comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur by Ilizarov method in whole period or conversion to OR/IF with or without bone graft after transient Ilizarov fixation. There were 13 cases in 11 patients. Open comminuted fractures were seven cases and closed comminuted fracutres were six cases. We compared Ilizarov method in all procedures and temporary mode followed by internal fixation for definite care.
RESULTS
According to Schatzker and Lamberts assessment the results were good or excellent in ten cases(77%). And the results were rated as good or excellent in 67% of case of Ilizarov method in all procedures, and 86% of cases changed to OR/IF.
CONCLUSION
Ilizarov technique is an useful method in cases of open and/or comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur. And after initial stabilization of fracture, conversion to OR/IF is advisable to prevent pin site infection and allow ROM excercise of the knee joint.