Comparison of Outcome of Early Versus Delayed Hemisoleus Flap Coverage of Open Wound Over the Middle One Third of Leg after Fracture of Tibia

Background: Fracture of tibia are quite common and wound coverage is usually needed in its management. Objective: To compare the outcome of early versus delayed hemisoleus flap coverage, of open wound over the middle one third of leg after fracture of tibia. Methodology: This randomized controlled trial, was conducted over a year, in the Department of Plastic Surgery, Nishtar Hospital, Multan, including 240 patients, with open tibial shaft fractures, who had early (Group A) or delayed coverage (Group B). Both the groups were compared for outcome parameters (excellent, good, fair and poor) used by Haq et al, at six weeks after the procedure. Chi-square test was applied for test of significance. P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Data was analyzed with the help of SPSS version 20. Results: In group A, excellent, good, fair and poor outcome, were seen in 48 (40%), 45 (37.5%), 25 (20.8%) and 2 (1.7%) patients, respectively. In group B, excellent, good, fair and poor outcome, were seen in 0 (0%), 60 (50%) patients, 18 (15%) and 42 (35%) patients, respectively. The results were statistically significant on comparison of the two groups (p <0.05). Conclusion: Early coverage of open tibial shaft fracture results in higher frequency of excellent and good outcome as compared to delayed coverage.