Extrafocal osteosynthesis in open crus fractures

The purpose of this study was to compare the treatment of open crus fractures with pin (116 patients) versus rod (107 patients) extrafocal fixation devices. In all cases primary osteosynthesis was performed within the first hours after trauma. Authors consider that choice of extrafocal fixation technique depends on the pattern of open fracture. Rod fixation is preferred in simple or wedge fractures. Pin fixation provides better outcome in all types of comminuted shaft fractures. Rod fixators are of more simple design than pin ones and it takes less time to handle with them. Uncomplicated postoperative period was noted in 179 patients (80.3%) out of 223. Purulent complications were in 16.5% of cases (5.8% of cases in rod fixation, 10.7% of cases in pin fixation). The rate of other complications was 3.2%.