Draining infected non union of the distal third of the tibia. The use of invaginating docking over short distances in older patients.

BACKGROUND The distal third of the tibia is unique in the sense that it has a minimal muscle cover and consequently the blood supply is easily compromised after a fracture in this area. Infected non union in this area provides a challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. These difficulties are especially profound in the geriatric age group. MATERIAL AND METHODS 12 cases with an infected non union of the distal third of the tibia were managed with acute docking over a distance of up to 2.5 cms. The age of these patients was more than 55 years. RESULTS The average shortening at final follow up was 1.8 cms. The bone results were assessed according to the protocol laid down by the association for the study and application of the method of Ilizarov. Accordingly we had 3 excellent, 8 good and 1 fair result. The functional result was calculated as per the Ilizarov criteria [1]. On this basis we had 7 excellent, 4 good and 1 fair result. CONCLUSION The acute docking modality is applicable to the distal tibia in such situations even in the geriatric population with predictable results.