Intramedullary reaming and irrigation in associated with antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate implantation in the treatment of infection after intramedullary nailing: A retrospective study of 19 cases.
Abstract Background The incidence of intramedullary infection is increasing with the frequent application of intramedullary fixations on long bone fractures in latest decades. However, appropriate treatment for those special infection remains a challenge. The aims of this study were to assess the efficiency of our treatment protocols: intramedullary nail removal, medullary canal reaming and irrigation, followed by antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate implantation with or without distraction osteogenesis, for the treatment of infection after intramedullary nailing. Methods From 2014 to 2017, a total of 19 patients with intramedullary infection were treated in our center, with means of intramedullary nail removal, distal diaphysis fenestration, medullary canal reaming and irrigation, antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate implantation, followed by distraction osteogenesis in 9 cases to repair bone defect. The infection remission rate, infection recurrence rate and post-operative complications rate were assessed during the follow-up. Results All of patients gained satisfactory outcomes with an average follow-up of 38.1 (24 to 55months). 94.7% (18/19) patients achieved infection remission after surgical treatment. 5.3% (1/19) patient developed reinfection, but healed at the end of follow up with re-debridement. 9 patients with surgery-related bone defects received bone transport and successfully restored the length of involved limbs, with a mean transport duration of 10.7 months (range, 6.7 to 19.5months). Majority of patients achieved pain free and full weight bearing during the follow-up. Postoperative complications mainly included prolonged aseptic draining (36.8%, 7/19) and refracture (5.3%, 1/19), which were successfully managed by regular dressing and refixation. Conclusion Intramedullary nail removal, canal reaming and irrigation in associated with antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate implantation (with or without distraction osteogenesis) were effective in the treatment of infection after intramedullary nailing.