Functional outcome of intramedullary interlocking nail versus minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in extra-articular distal tibial fractures

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to assess the functional outcomes of Intramedullary Interlocking Nailing (ILN) and Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO) in patients with extra-articular distal tibial fractures. Methods: Conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics, Pt. B.D Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak. The study included 100 patients diagnosed with extra-articular distal tibial fractures. Results: Patient age ranged from 19 to 74 years, with a mean of 42.3 years (SD = 15.4 years). Most participants were aged between 36 and 45 years, with 60% being male. Fracture patterns were classified as transverse (48%) and oblique (44%). Nailing was performed on 58% of patients, while 42% underwent plating. The mean time for full weight-bearing was 10.08±1.38 weeks, which was statistically significant (p< 0.0001). Union time averaged 17.33±2.48 weeks (range: 15-24 weeks), showing high statistical significance (p< 0.0001). Conclusion: Both ILN and MIPO are effective fixation techniques that preserve osseous vascularity and fracture hematoma, promoting biological repair. These methods are minimally invasive, reducing soft tissue dissection.