Comparison of Indigenously Prepared Antibiotic Rod and Premade Antibiotic Rod in the Treatment of Infection Following Fracture Fixation

Infection following fracture fixation is a significant complication that can delay healing and impact patient outcomes. This study compares the efficacy and advantages of an indigenously prepared antibiotic rod versus a commercially available antibiotic rod in treating such infections. A technique with which antibiotic cement-coated interlocking intramedullary nails are prepared in the operating room with the use of nails and materials that generally are available is herein described, clinical outcomes, and potential benefits of the indigenously prepared antibiotic compared to premade antibiotic rod are highlighted. This technique was used in a series of 20 patients in 18 patient goal of union was achieved with control of infection, one patient had persistent nonunion, one had amputation. 2 patient (10%) had cement debonding during removal. control of infection and stability to promote union has traditionally been provided by 2 separate procedures, which have proved to be efficacious in this series with staged approach. Results which showed similar if not greater results with the indigenously prepared antibiotic rod to that of premade antibiotic rod when compared with the available literatures in indexed journals.