Circumstances of Injury:

On July 1, during a combat mission, our soldier was at his position when the enemy dropped an explosive from a drone. Shrapnel severely injured his leg. Despite the pain and shock, he managed to apply a tourniquet, stopping the bleeding until medical assistance arrived.

Diagnosis:

1. Gunshot fractures of the condyles of the left tibia with displacement.
   • Severe injury to the joint area of the tibia (shinbone), caused by a gunshot or shrapnel.
   • Displacement of bone fragments disrupts the anatomy of the joint surface, potentially affecting mobility and joint function.
2. External Fixation Device (EFD):
   • Temporary stabilization of the fractures using an external fixation apparatus.
   • Especially useful for open fractures or when soft tissue injuries prevent immediate internal fixation.

Clinical Solution:

1. Removal of the External Fixation Device (EFD):

• Performed under anesthesia once soft tissue healing and inflammation have improved.
• Involves cleaning and treating pin or screw entry points to prevent infection.

2. Internal Fixation with Plates and Screws (ORIF):

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Final surgical fixation of tibial condyle fractures using plates and screws.
• Goals of ORIF:
  • Restores the anatomical alignment of the tibial condyles.
  • Provides stable fixation for optimal healing.
  • Preserves and restores joint mobility and weight-bearing capacity.