Randomized trial evaluates staged reconstruction benefits in managing Gustilo Type IIIB and IIIC open fractures, indicating practical application for severe injuries.
Key Points
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a staged reconstruction strategy for Gustilo Type IIIB and IIIC open fractures.
Retrospective review of 23 patients with Gustilo Type IIIB or IIIC open fractures
Comparison between single-stage 'fix and flap' and staged 'fix followed by flap' strategies
Assessment of clinical outcomes including deep infection, non-union, and timing of treatments.
Staged strategy group had a higher mean injury severity score (13.8 ± 7.3) compared to the fix-and-flap group (10.8 ± 4.0, P = 0.25)
Deep infection occurred in two patients from each treatment group
Interval to soft-tissue reconstruction was significantly longer in the staged group (9.2 ± 2.2 vs. 4.8 ± 0.8 days, P < 0.01)