Numerous fixation modalities can be used for various indications, including deformity correction, trauma, infection, and non-union. The Modular Rail System (MRS) is a well-tolerated apparatus that is a viable option for patients who do not want a circular frame or for whom internal fixation is not appropriate due to poor soft tissues/co-morbidities. This case series evaluates the outcomes of the use of the MRS in our centre. Cases were identified from a prospectively gathered database. Data were collected including indication for treatment, frame duration, complications and treatment outcome. Eighteen eligible cases were identified (mean age 26, range 8–71). The MRS was sited in the femur in 14 cases, the tibia in three and the fibula in one. In nine cases, a circular frame was sited on the tibia below a femoral MRS. Frames were removed at an average of 20 weeks (range 7–31).Introduction
Materials and Methods
Managing open tibial fractures according to national guidelines is a primary focus for major trauma centres, however pressures of capacity and expertise limit the capability to achieve all of these standards for every patient. Debate remains over the impact of particular aspects of guidance, especially in relation to the timing of surgical interventions. Evaluation of these tenants of care predominantly hinge on trends derived from low level scientific evidence, mainly due to the difficulty in completing high level studies. The aim of this study is to assess the complication rates and the associations with difficulties in achieving the national guidance standards. Retrospective analysis of the 2015/2016 cohort of 3B open tibial fractures treated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. Data collected, through the use of the patient electronic records, cross referenced against hospital coding and trauma injury database, included patient demographics, injury details, clinical interventions, surgical management, complications and time to bony union.Introduction
Methods
