Postoperative extremity metallosteosynthesis complications

Aim. To carry out the qualitative analysis of metal implant, inserted into the bone, determine tactics for treatment of inflammatory process in the postoperative period of metallosteosynthesis.

Materials and methods. The treatment of 1325 patients with the developing posttraumatic osteomyelitis of the upper and lower extremities in the Department of Complicated Traumatology of City Clinical Hospital № 6 and traumatology departments of Perm for 10 years (2004–2014) was analyzed.

Results. Metallosis was observed in 227 (17.2 %) persons. Matallosis was manifested by suppuration and fistula formation in the region of screw 2–3 months after operative treatment of fracture in 177 (76.3 %) patients, and in 50 (27.7 %) patients – by acute purulent inflammatory process immediately after the surgery. In 34 (15 %) patients, computed tomography and MRI demonstrated metal bone impregnations. All these 227 (17.2 %) patients underwent elimination of metal constructions. The postoperative wounds after elimination of metal constructions healed primarily in 152 (66 %) patients. Secondary healing of the postoperative wounds was noted in 75 (44 %) persons. The long-term results were studied during 3 years in 189 (83 %) patients. The development of the postoperative osteomyelitic process, connected with late removal of metal construction, was registered in 8 (4.4 %) persons. False joint was formed in 1 (0.5 %) patient with tibial fracture. Positive long-term result was reached in 180 (95.2 %) persons.

Conclusions. Timely diagnosis, correctly chosen technique of treatment permit to provide full restoration of the structure and function, and obtain positive medical and social rehabilitation in this category of patients.