Axial load-share ratio testing to assess the healing of open tibial fractures treated with the Taylor Spatial Frame

Background:The Taylor Spatial Frame(TSF)has gained popularity among orthopedic surgeons for treating open fractures.However,a key challenge is the timely and safe removal of the frame.This study assessed the efficacy and safety of axial load-share ratio(ALSR)testing to evaluate callus healing strength after TSF treatment of open tibial fractures.Methods:A retrospective case-control study was conducted,analyzing 180 adult patients with open tibial fractures treated at Tianjin Hospital’s Orthopedic Limb Correction Unit between August 2019 and August 2022.All patients underwent TSF external fixation surgery,and were divided into two groups based on ALSR testing.Group I(92 patients)underwent ALSR testing,with frame removal if the test value fell below 5%.Traditional methods were used for fixator removal guidance in Group II(88 patients).Clinical outcomes,including fixation duration,complications after fixator removal,and Johner-Wruhs functional scores,were compared between the two groups.Results:The groups showed no statistically significant differences(P>0.05)in sex,age,injury side,body mass index,surgery timing,or fracture type.Group I had a significantly shorter fixation duration(25.85±5.57 weeks)compared to Group II(31.82±6.98 weeks)(P<0.05).Following fixator removal,Group I demonstrated superior Johner-Wruhs scores compared to Group II,indicating better outcomes(P<0.05).Complication rates did not differ significantly between the groups at the last follow-up(P>0.05).Conclusion:Regular postoperative ALSR testing could safely and effectively guide TSF removal following open tibial fracture treatment.This method significantly reduced fixation duration compared to traditional guidance methods while maintaining efficacy and safety.