Publication:

Study on management of extra articular distal tibial metaphyseal fractures by intramedullary interlocking nailing

Background Fractures of the tibia remain a controversial subject despite advances in both non-operative and operative care. The goal in expert care is to realign the fracture, realign limb length, and early functional recovery. To analyze the short-term results of intramedullary interlocking nailing in the management of extra-articular distal tibial metaphyseal fractures done.

Methods This is a prospective comparative on-randomized study of 28 patients with distal tibial metaphyseal fractures in govt. dist. headquarters hospital Nagapattinam with a follow-up ranging from September 2018 to january 2019 4 months. Injury With more than 3 weeks, nonunion, and patient with multiple injuries or a history of previous knee or ankle pathology were not included as were patients who sustained high energy axial load injury-causing disruption or impaction of the ankle plafond.

Results The average distance between the distal tip of the nail and the articular surface of the plafond was 12 mm (range, 4 to 15 mm). Fibular plating was done in 10 patients. Two distal locking bolts were used in 26 patients; 2 patients had three distal locking bolts.

Conclusions Intramedullary nailing is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of extra-articular distal metaphyseal tibial fractures if careful preoperative planning is allied with the meticulous surgical technique.