A comparitive study of plate osteosynthesis versus intramedullary nailing for distal tibia fractures

Abstract

Introduction: For the past decade, nailing and plating for fracture reduction has been successful in treating fractures of lower extremity especially distal tibia. The goal of the techniques is to apply stable fixation while maintaining the fracture biology and minimizing the soft tissue problems. Methodology: On admission of the patient, a careful history was elicited from the patient and/or attainders to reveal the mechanism of injury and the severity of the trauma. The patients were then assessed clinically to evaluate their general condition and the local injury. General condition was assessed with the vital signs and systemic examination. Methodical examination was done to rule out fractures at other sites. Results: In our study, 16% of patients had excellent results, 62% of patients had good results and 12% of patients had fair results and 10% of patients had poor results Conclusion: Complications are more in nailing compared to plate osteosynthesis. Functional outcome of plating and nailing is comparable