External fixation of open femoral shaft fractures.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether external fixation proves to be a sensible technique for definitive stabilization in open femoral fractures.

DESIGN: Retrospective clinical study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 1985 to 1989, 18 patients (mean ISS 25.4) with open femoral fractures (type II 11%, type III 89%) were treated by primary and definitive external fixation. After failure of closed reduction procedures, open reduction via debrided soft tissue wounds was employed in 72%. Supplemental internal fixation of large wedge fragments was required in 66%. External fixators were removed after a mean of 166 days. Early deep infections developed in 11%. Additional cast, brace, or traction were not required.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: After a mean follow-up period of 58 months, 88% of the surviving 17 patients were clinically and radiologically evaluated and 12% were interviewed by telephone. Eleven percent developed late deep infection of the femur concerned. Eighty percent have had full or slightly restricted knee motion. The mean knee flexion amounted to 130 degrees. Relevant shortening of the femur was diagnosed in 7%. Nonunions or relevant malunions were not observed in our series.

CONCLUSIONS: These morphologic and functional results compare with those published for alternative stabilization techniques of femoral fractures. For special indications, external fixation is considered to be a sensible technique for primary and definitive treatment of open femoral fractures.