Timing of closure of open fractures

Abstract

Traditionally, closure of open fractures after initial debridement has been delayed to minimize the risk of complications, particularly infection. This practice developed before the widespread use of systemic antibiotics, local antibiotic bead pouches, advanced debridement methods, and improved fracture stabilization techniques. Current evidence indicates that infections after treatment of open fractures frequently are not caused by initial contaminating organisms but often are acquired in the hospital. Recent studies comparing primary with delayed closure have not demonstrated an increased rate of complications. Considering the improvements in open fracture wound care, the increasing incidence of resistant nosocomial infections, and the cost implications of a dogmatic delayed-closure strategy, wound care protocols for open fractures should be reevaluated. Because of lack of data specifically addressing the timing of closure of such wounds, studies comparing primary versus delayed closure are needed.