Distraction osteogenesis in a segmental tibial delayed union

The treatment of open segmental tibia fracture associated with bone loss is very demanding. Despite the fact that the principles of the distraction osteogenesis are being followed commonly in these fractures, there is not a single technique that fits all situations. In this article, we report a case where the initial fractures were stabilized with a monolateral bridging external fixator with no evidence of callus formation 6 weeks later. The proximal fracture was used as “an osteotomy” for bone transport after a latent period of 6 weeks of compression. The successful outcome in this patient, confirms that distraction of a delayed union even when it is mobile, can lead to bone formation and healing of the delayed union.