A Prospective Observational Study of Antibiotic Cement Impregnated Nailing in the Management of Infected Non-Union of Long Bones in A Tertiary Care Hospital in Chengalpattu District

Abstract

Background: Infected non-union of long bones presents significant clinical challenges due to poor vascularization, bacterial biofilms, and chronic infections. Conventional treatments require multiple surgical procedures, increasing morbidity and healthcare costs.

Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of a single-stage antibiotic cement-impregnated intramedullary nailing procedure in the management of infected non-union of long bones.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Chengalpet, Tamil Nadu. A total of 37 patients diagnosed with infected non-union were treated with antibiotic cement-impregnated intramedullary nails. Clinical outcomes were assessed through infection resolution, fracture stability, and radiological union.

Results: The study observed a high rate of infection control and radiological union. Patients showed significant improvements in infection markers (ESR, CRP) and functional outcomes.

Conclusion: Antibiotic cement-impregnated intramedullary nailing is an effective, economical, and single-stage treatment alternative to conventional multi-stage procedures for infected non-union of long bones.