Role of External Fixator in Management of Periarticular and lntraarticular Fractures of Lower Limb

Abstract

Articular fracutres differ from other fracutres in the fact that in addition to the required osseous healing, proper cartilage healing is essentially required, because failure to restore articular congruity will lead to significant disability of the affected joint Articular cartilages are avascular, so it depends in nutrition on synovial fluid and it depends on a healthy synovial membrane and an adequate circulation of fluid through the joint. In children there is the epiphysis which is responsible on longitudinal bone growth. The adequate healing of articular cartilage need to perfect reduction and compression of the fracture and continous passive motion of the joint. In adequate healing in adults leads to mechanical joint dysfunction and in children resulting in deformety or length discrepancy. Intra and peri articular fractures of lower limb classified into Pilon, Plateau, Supra condylar, Trochanteric, Neck femur, and Acetabulur fractures. -Pilon fractures classified by Ruedi and Allgower classification (1979) and AO classification (1991) -Plateau fracture classified by AO classification (1990) and Schatzker classification (1979). -Supra condylar femoral fracture classified by AO classification ( 1979). -Trochantric classified by Evans classification ( 1949). -Neck femur classified by Garden classification (1991). -And acetabular classified by Letournel and Judet classification (}64). -In children intra articular fractures in lower limb is mainly classified by Salter-Harris classification (1963). These fractures diagnosed by history of trauma and clinic examination and radiology (X-ray, CT, MRI and angiography and bone scan may be needed.