The Vacuum-Assisted Closure Device Increases Value in the Treatment of Gustilo Grade IIIb Open Tibia Fractures in Children

Background Wound management associated with Gustilo grade IIIb open tibia fractures in children often requires muscle flaps, skin grafts, and amputations. The purpose of this study is to report the outcomes and complications of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) treatment, as well as discuss its role in optimizing value when treating these injuries. Methods A retrospective review of medical records and imaging studies was performed from 2008-2015. Six pediatric patients with Gustilo grade IIIb fractures managed with the VAC were identified. The time to treatment, frequency of VAC changes, VAC size, and closure attempts, including muscle flaps and skin grafts, were documented. Fracture fixation methods, the incidence of delayed union or nonunion, as well as the occurrence of deep tissue infection and compartment syndrome were detailed. Results Five patients were male and one was female with an average age of 12 years (range 8-15 years). All patients sustained a Gustilo IIIb open tibia fracture and were treated with irrigation, debridement, intravenous (IV) antibiotics, fixation, and a VAC as a wound care adjunct. Three patients required both a muscle flap and a skin graft. One patient required a skin graft. There was one case of deep tissue infection. Three patients were treated successfully with the VAC alone and did not require any flap procedures. Conclusions Wound care for Gustilo grade IIIb open tibia fractures in children traditionally involved potentially painful twice-daily dressing changes with solutions such as dilute bleach or iodine. The implementation of VAC markedly reduced the frequency of dressing changes every three days. In the current study, the open wound gradually closed with only a VAC in 50% of Gustilo grade IIIb open pediatric tibia fractures. In summary, the VAC is an adjunct that increases value in the care of pediatric patients with Gustilo grade IIIb open tibia fractures (Value = Outcomes/Cost). Level of evidence Therapeutic level IV