Clinical Application Study of External Fixation Treatment Using Removed Locking Plates in Patients with Failed Debridement and Antimicrobial Therapy for Infection after Internal Fixation of Fractures

<b><i>Purpose:</i></b> The main focus of this study is to investigate the clinical efficacy of external fixation treatment using removed locking plates in patients with failed debridement and antimicrobial therapy of infection after internal fixation of fractures. <b><i>Patients and Methods:</i></b> From January 2019 to January 2023, our medical institution treated 13 patients who had failed debridement and antimicrobial therapy for infection after internal fixation of fractures. All patients had their internal fixation devices removed, underwent thorough debridement, and then the removed locking plates were repurposed for external fixation treatment. Post-operatively, we observed the infection control status, fracture healing, and complications following locking plate external fixation. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Among all patients, there were seven males and six females, with an average age of 45.92 ± 13.19 years. The time interval from fracture internal fixation surgical procedure to the onset of infection was 7.08 ± 1.89 weeks, and the average debridement frequency was 1.62 ± 0.51 times. After treatment with external fixation using a removed locking plate, infection was controlled in 12 patients, ultimately achieving clinical bone healing. These 12 patients achieved clinical bone healing at a time of 7.50 ± 1.00 months, and the locking plate external fixation time was 9.83 ± 1.11 months. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> External fixation using removed locking plates appears to be an effective treatment option for patients who have failed debridement and antimicrobial therapy for infection after internal fixation of fractures. This approach effectively controls infection symptoms while not interfering with the fracture healing process. Additionally, this treatment option using a removed locked plate may potentially contribute to reducing patients' medical expenses.