A Case Report of Proximal Migration of Fibular Head with Intact Peroneal Nerve in a Post-Operative Infected Tibia Gap Non-union Managed by Ilizarov Technique

INTRODUCTION: We hereby present a rare case of proximal fibular head migration associated with Ilizarov technique for infected tibia gap non-union due to follow-up failure in post-operative management during the coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic. CASE REPORT: A 45-year-old male patient had undergone primary external fixation with wound debridement for a compound tibia shaft fracture Grade 3 A Gustilo class which later on with a healed external wound with a discharging sinus at the fracture site was confirmed to be infected non-union and subsequently managed by Ilizarov ring fixation over an antibiotic coated intramedullary nail and local gentamycin beads after a necrotic bone fragment of around 6 cm was excised. Post-operative protocol of compression and distraction was initiated and the patient educated regarding the same before discharge. As the world over was hit by the COVID pandemic and the lockdown limited all possible movements in our country, the patient could not follow up for monitoring the Ilizarov limb lengthening procedure. He presented to us after 4 months after the relaxation of lockdown with radiological union at the docking site but with a shortening of about 3 cm. Vigorous knee range physiotherapy failed to improve range beyond 90° which prompted us to check X-ray the knee joint and revealed the complication of proximal fibular head migration of 4 cm but with no neurodeficit and currently the patient is being managed with full weight mobilization with the help of crutch and shoe raise and an improved knee range till 100° of flexion with no pain tenderness or any other complaints. CONCLUSION: Having knowledge of this possible rare complication and the need for follow-up and monitoring with the importance of patient education makes practicing orthopedic surgeons equipped to handle and anticipate such undesirable complications.