Abstract: Background: Post-traumatic segmental bone loss with open tibial fracture is a clinical problem with a significant long term morbidity. Reconstruction of this defect is a major challenge in orthopaedic practice. In 1986, the French technique of autologous bone grafting within induced granulation tissue membrane, otherwise known as Masquelet technique, offers a suitable alternative. This study was aimed to observe clinical, radiological and functional outcome in pateints with open and infected tibia fracture managed by Masquelet technique.
Methods: This obsevatonal prospective study was conducted MKCG Medical College & Hospital, Berhampur form June 2015 to June 2018. Patients (18 to 60 years) with compound tibial defects of size less than 5 cm with or without infection and soft tissue defect were included in study. In total 11 patients were treated with Masquelet technique i.e by induced memenbrane technique with an antibiotic cement spacer implant. Routine radiograph were performed and weight bearing was removed after radiographic sign of union and clinical outcome was monitored with lower limb finctional index.
Results: Average age was 35.3 years with 1 female and 10 male patients. Radiological union was seen in all patients and average time of radiological union was 43.8 weeks. Full weight bearing was achived after a average time of 16 weeks (ranged from 16 weeks to 21 weeks). Average follow up period was 12.3 months. Average lower limb functional index was 59% with a range of 37% to 90%.
Conclusion: Masquelet technique can be a good option of treatment of patients with bone defects and can be performed easily in lower trauma centres without involving other specialities as does not require specialised equipment and can be done by surgeons with varying experience and capabilities.
