Functional Recovery After Open Tibial Shaft Fracture Management at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi

Open tibial shaft fractures are among the most demanding injuries in orthopaedic trauma surgery, with a high risk of infection, non-union, and permanent disability. This prospective observational study evaluates the functional recovery of patients with open tibial shaft fractures treated at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra State, South East Nigeria. Patients presenting with grade I to IIIB open tibial fractures over a twelve-month period will be enrolled and followed up at six weeks, three months, and six months post-treatment. Interventions to be reviewed include wound irrigation and debridement, intramedullary nailing, external fixation, and delayed wound closure. Outcome measures will include time to union, infection rates (Cierny-Mader classification), limb salvage rates, and functional status using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). The study will document adequacy of antibiotic coverage and adherence to wound management protocols. It is anticipated that grade III injuries will exhibit significantly prolonged healing times and higher infection rates. Findings will be presented to the orthopaedic unit at NAUTH to refine local management protocols. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on open fracture outcomes in tertiary centres within the South East zone and supports advocacy for improved surgical infrastructure in Nigerian teaching hospitals. Keywords: open tibial fracture, functional recovery, limb salvage, Nnewi, orthopaedic trauma.