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Wichlas, F; Hofmann, V; Strada, G; Moursy, M; Deininger, C.
Off-label use of orthopedical trauma implants in a low-income country.
Int Orthop. 2022; 46(1): 21-27. Doi: 10.1007/s00264-021-04990-x [OPEN ACCESS]
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Leading authors Med Uni Graz: Deininger Christian
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Abstract:: PURPOSE: Lack of resources, severe injuries, and logistical flaws force surgeons in low-income countries (LIC) to improvise during surgery and use implants "off-label." These off-label treatments are specific for the work of trauma surgeons in non-governmental (NGO) hospitals in LIC. The aim of this study is to show the need of off-label surgery in an environment of low resources by means of typical examples. METHODS: Off-label treated fractures, the implant used instead, and the reason for off-label treatment were investigated in 367 injuries over a three month period in an NGO hospital in Sierra Leone. RESULTS: Twenty-seven fractures were treated off-label with mostly K-wires (88.89%) and external fixators (51.85%). Three reasons for off-label use could be defined: no suitable implants (N = 14), the condition of soft tissues that did not allow internal osteosyntheses (N = 10), and implants not ready for surgery due to logistic flaws (N = 3). The implants needed were mostly locking plates. CONCLUSION: Surgeons in similar settings must use K-wires and external fixators to treat complex fractures. Using implants off-label can help surgeons to treat fractures otherwise left untreated.
Find related publications in this database (using NLM MeSH Indexing): Bone Plates - administration & dosage; Bone Wires - administration & dosage; External Fixators - administration & dosage; Fracture Fixation, Internal - administration & dosage; Humans - administration & dosage; Off-Label Use - administration & dosage
Find related publications in this database (Keywords): Off-label treatment; NGO surgery; Austere environment; Complex injuries; LIC; K-wires; External fixators