Outcome analysis of interlocking nailing for tibial shaft fractures

Abstract

The results of closed intramedullary nailing technique are excellent for treating fractures of the tibial shaft. We decided to analyse the outcome of primary interlocking nailing done for tibial fractures. All patients with tibial shaft fractures treated with primary interlocking nail were evaluated. Static or dynamic locking was done depending upon the fracture pattern and stability. 44 fractures were included in the study. Reaming was done in 41 (93%) patients rest of them being unreamed nailing for compound fractures. Nine (20%) of the nails were dynamically locked. 95.6% united uneventfully except two (4.4%). The average time to union was 26 weeks. Primary Interlocking nailing for tibial shaft fractures is an excellent method of definite surgical management of closed and compound fractures of tibia. Interlocking nailing has less chance of complications like infection and non union as expected in compound injuries with bone loss. It is more acceptable to patients than external fixators in these scenarios.