Abstract
Introduction
By utilising the inherent variability achievable with circular frames, surgeons can manage a wide spectrum of complex injuries, and can deal with deformity at multiple levels, in multiple planes. The aim of this study was to assess functional outcomes utilising patients reported outcome measures (PROMs) of patients being treated with circular (Ilizarov) frame fixation for complex lower limb injuries and assess these results in conjunction with the observed postoperative alignment of the patients’ limbs.
Materials & Methods
Cases were identified using a prospectively collected database of adult patients presenting between July 2018 and August 2021. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), the 5-level EQ-5D (EQ5D5L), the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale (LKSS), the Olerud-Molendar Ankle Score (OMAS), and the Tegner Activity Scale (TAS). Postoperative radiographs were analysed for fracture union and to quantify malunion (as described in Dror Paleys Principles of Deformity Correction).
Results
The mean AOFAS, EQ5D5L, LKSS and OMAS scores showed an initial drop from pre-op to early time points and then steady increase over the early, mid, late and frame-off time points, with a resultant score higher than pre-op. Malunion was found in 35 (41.7%) patients, 7 patients had a malunion within 5 degrees of normal, 15 from 5–10 degrees of normal, 12 from 10–15 degrees of normal and 2 out with 15 degrees of normal.
Conclusions
Circular frame fixation is an attractive option in complex lower limb trauma where alternative fixation methods are unsuitable. Whilst post-operative success to the surgeon might be determined radiographically, patient reported outcomes give a functionally important, objective measure of the success of the surgery to the patient.
