Efficacy of suprapatellar approach for IMIL nailing of proximal and distal tibia shaft fractures

Abstract

Background: The fractures of tibial shaft are very common. The fractures at the proximal and distal metaphysio-diaphysis treated with Intramedullary Interlocking nails pose challenge during reduction and nail insertion. The use of Suprapatellar approach for the IMIL nail entry is an efficient and time saving. Materials and Methods: A series of 20 cases of proximal and distal tibia shaft fractures were treated with IMIL nail using the suprapatellar approach. Out of 20 patients 14 were males and 6 were females. The patients were then followed up on regular intervals of 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months. Results: All the fractures united well without any major complications. 4 patients had anterior knee pain and 2 patients developed superficial wound infection which was treated with antibiotics. Conclusion: The suprapatellar approach for proximal and distal shaft (Metaphysio-diaphysis) fractures is an advancement in treating such fractures. It is efficient and time saving and allows easy manipulation while reducing the fracture during the procedure without any major complications.