Free Paper Session: Tibial Bone Defects: Analysis Of Time To Union And Direct Medical Costs Using Distraction Osteogenesis With An Ilizarov Frame Or The Masquelet Technique

Description

The presentation, led by Paul Andrzejowski from Leeds, addresses the complexities of managing tibial bone defects and compares the cost-effectiveness and outcomes of two surgical techniques: the Ilizarov frames and the Masquelet technique. Andrzejowski introduces the topic by acknowledging the absence of a colleague due to health issues and outlines the main focus on analyzing time to union and direct medical costs associated with each method.



He discusses the challenge of bone defect management, touching on various surgical options such as acute shortening, grafting, and distraction osteogenesis, and emphasizes that both Ilizarov frames and the Masquelet technique are frequently used in their unit. The presentation aims to determine the economic viability and clinical outcomes of these options, considering factors like defect origin (acute versus non-union, septic versus non-septic).



Data collection was conducted using their trauma database, focusing specifically on randomly selected patients with segmental defects. The analysis highlighted significant findings, such as a total cost of nearly £454,000 for the studied cohort, revealing that the Masquelet technique was on average less expensive and resulted in a quicker time to union when compared to Ilizarov frames.



Andrzejowski concludes by reflecting on the substantial financial burden of these treatments, noting a significant loss in funding over the eight-year period despite additional funding for frame patients. He acknowledges the need for ongoing discussions and planning within their unit to address financial concerns moving forward. The session ends with an applause from the audience.

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