Journal of Clinical and Experimental Investigations

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of reamed and locked intramedullary nailing for tibial di-aphysis fractures.
Materials and methods: The study included 38 patients (26 males, 12 females) who were treated with reamed and locked intramedullary nailing for tibial diaphysis fractures. Fractures were classified according to Gustilo-Anderson classification and functional results were assessed using the Johner-Wrush criteria.
Results: The mean age was 36 years (range 18-61). There were 21 AO/ASIF type A, 16 type B, and 1 type C fractures. Twenty-four fracture were closed (63.1%) and 14 (36.9%) were open fractures. According to the Gustilo-Anderson classification, 9 were grade I, 4 patients grade II, and one grade IIIA open fractures. Intramedullary nailing was per-formed following open reduction in 18 patients, and closed reduction in 20. The mean time to surgery was 9.4 days and the mean follow-up was 29 months. Union was achieved in all patients within a mean of 17.6 weeks. Anterior knee pain developed in 18 patients and infection developed in three patients. Angular deformity less than 10º was developed 12 patients (31.6%). There were screw breakacge and synostosis in four and two patients respectively. Ac-cording to the Johner-Wrush criteria, functional results were very good in 23 patients (60.5%), good in 12 patients (31.6%) and fair in 3 (7.9%) patients.
Conclusion: Treatment of tibial diaphysis fractures with reamed and locked intramedullary nailing gives satisfactory results. It should be considered as first choice in the treatment of these fractures.