Journal of orthopaedic trauma
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To evaluate the utility of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the setting of high-energy open tibial shaft fractures. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: This was a retrospective consecutive series in a level 1 university-based trauma center. Forty-nine consecutive patients presenting to a level 1 trauma center between 1996 and 2004 with 50 grade/type III open tibial shaft fractures were assessed. ⋯ Infection and nonunion rates with the use of NPWT for temporary coverage of wounds associated with grade/type III open tibial shaft fractures are similar to those of historical controls, but this technique may be beneficial in decreasing the need for free tissue transfer or rotational muscle flap coverage.