Role of procalcitonin in conversion osteosynthesis of combat injuries of the extremities

Abstract

Objective. To determine the possibility of using the procalcitonin inflammation marker in clinical practice for conversion osteosynthesis of combat injuries of the extremities. Materials and methods. An analysis of 174 injuries to long bones of the limbs sustained during modern combat operations due to Russia's full–scale invasion between 2022 and 2024 was conducted. All patients who participated in the study were military personnel who were treated at the Chernivtsi Regional Clinical Hospital at the stage of providing qualified medical care. Results. It has been proven that the use of procalcitonin to predict the course of the traumatic process in patients with long bone fractures as a marker of the risk of inflammation is appropriate for deciding on the possibility and advisability of conversion. After conversion osteosynthesis, blood procalcitonin levels reliably decreased in patients with combat trauma to the extremities, indicating a reduced risk of infectious сomplications. Conclusions. The use of blood procalcitonin level measurement is promising in clinical practice when converting the osteosynthesis method.