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Treatment of an open fracture

Authoring team

The aims of management of an open fracture of the tibia and fibula are:

  • antibiotic therapy
  • debridement of the wound
  • stabilization of the fracture
  • delayed closure of the wound
  • rehabilitation

Gustilo grade I are closed primarily and treated as a closed fracture.

More serious injuries are cleaned, debrided, left open and inspected at day 3. Further debridement may be required.

External fixation is important in stabilising these fractures.

When the wound is clearly clean and granulating it is closed.

Once the fracture has begun to heal the external fixator is replaced by a full cast.


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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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