Treatment of infected nonunion of the juxta-articular region of the distal tibia.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to summarize our clinical results with distraction osteogenesis for the treatment of infected tibial nonunion around the ankle joint.

METHODS: Between 1994 and 2009, 13 patients with a mean age of 50 years (range: 27-79 years) underwent tibial reconstruction for the treatment of infected nonunion of the distal tibia, with a mean bone loss of 4.8 cm (range: 1-7 cm). Lengthening over an intramedullary nail as a second procedure was used in 2 patients, bifocal compression and distraction technique in 5 cases, compression with Ilizarov external fixator in 5 cases, and Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF, Smith Nephew, Memphis, TN, USA) in 1 case. At final follow-up, functional and radiographic results were evaluated according to Paley's bone and functional healing criteria.

RESULTS: Mean duration of follow-up was 36 months. Mean external fixation time was 198 days, and mean external fixation index was 29 days/cm. According to Paley's bone healing criteria, there were 10 excellent, 2 good, and 1 poor result(s); additionally, according to Paley's functional healing criteria, there were 5 excellent, 6 good, and 2 fair results. There were 11 problems, 5 obstacles, and 1 sequel according to Paley's classification of complications. There was 1 persisting nonunion, which underwent revision with a retrograde intramedullary nail.

CONCLUSION: External fixator and/or combined treatment are effective and reliable methods to treat infected nonunion of the distal tibia. Every patient should be evaluated according to their infection level and bony defects for reconstruction.