UKZN Study Produces Novel Treatment for Tibial Non-Unions

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UKZN Orthopaedic specialist, Dr Nando Ferreira, graduated with a PhD in Medicine for his study which developed a novel treatment algorithm incorporating new treatment strategies with the use of circular external fixators for the management of tibial non-unions.

Ferreira’s thesis was titled:  “The Outcome of Tibial Non-Union Treatment Using a Revised Definition, Classification System and Management Strategy”.

According to Ferreira, with the overwhelming incidence of trauma in South Africa, complications such as fracture non-union are frequently experienced.

‘Tibial fractures and subsequent non-unions are particularly prevalent and their optimal management is controversial. My research included novel treatment strategies and incorporated the concept of mechano-biology to non-union management.’

He is currently involved in research in the field of orthopaedic limb reconstruction and also supervises degree research of students.

‘I am contemplating further studies in research methodology and biostatistics,’ said Ferreira.

He enjoys supervising master’s research and aims to start supervising PhD studies.

‘My family supported me throughout my time as a Registrar and all subsequent research activities. When I struggled to stay motivated they were a great source of support and encouragement,’ he said.

Feirreira’s wife, Yvette, is a Radiographer at Greys Hospital in Pietermaritzburg and they have two children.

In his free time he enjoys mountain biking and motorcycle riding. ‘I am currently in the process of restoring a 1942 Harley Davidson!”

Born in KwaZulu-Natal, Ferreira completed his MBChB at the University of Stellenbosch after which he completed specialising in orthopaedics, his Masters of Medicine degree and his PhD at UKZN.

Nombuso Dlamini