IMPACT OF THE TIMING OF ANTIBIOTIC THERAPY INITIATION AND SURGICAL INTERVENTION ON THE PROGNOSIS OF PATIENTS WITH GRADE III OPEN FRACTURES IN EMERGENCY SETTINGS

Abstract

Grade III open fractures represent a highly complex orthopedic emergency, requiring rapid and effective interventions to prevent serious complications such as infections, amputations, and even death. This study aims to analyze the impact of the timing of antibiotic therapy initiation and surgical intervention on the prognosis of patients with grade III open fractures in emergency settings. Through a literature review conducted between 2021 and 2025, scientific evidence was investigated regarding the relationship between early management and clinical outcomes. The results indicate that delays in antibiotic administration and surgical debridement are associated with worse clinical evolution, longer hospital stays, and higher risk of complications. Additionally, factors such as structural limitations of healthcare services and the lack of standardized protocols contribute to this variability. Standardizing care and optimizing assistance flows are essential to improve outcomes.