FUNCTIONAL AND RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOME OF ILIZAROV FOR SCHATZKER FRACTURE TYPE VI

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and radiologic outcome of Ilizarov fixator in Schatzker’s type VI fractures.

Settings: Orthopedics department of Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore.

Study design: Prospective observational study.

Study duration: The study period extended from 15^th May 2024 to 15^th November 2024.

Study methodology: During the study period consecutive sampling was applied and all the cases of open or close Schatzker’s type VI fractures that were fixed with Ilizarov were studied. Outcome was assessed clinically as well as radiologically on 6-month follow-up. Clinical assessment was done by using American Knee Society score and radiologic assessment was done by Rasmussen’s radiological scoring (RSS).

Results: A total of 68 patients were studied; where majority were males presenting following RTA and the mean age was 34.70±8.14. Final outcome in terms of postoperative range of motion, which was 90.8±18.89. Functional outcome in terms of AKSS was 69.63±16.73 and the radiological outcome in term of Rasmussen’s radiological scoring was 12.58±3.05. In terms of functional outcome, highest number of patients fall in the excellent outcome criteria i-e 46 patients. Whereas, in terms of radiological outcome highest number of individuals were in the good outcome category.

Conclusion: Ilizarov fixator is associated with excellent to good outcome in Schatzker’s type VI fractures. The factors that affect the final outcome among these patients include use of proximal tibial C-ring and fracture patterns that don’t need cannulated screws for fixation