A clinical study on surgical management of diaphyseal fractures of tibia by intramedullary interlocking nail

Abstract

Tibia is the most common fracture in the lower limb (1). Tibia is the subcutenously placed bone and has a precarious blood supply. Hence special care and expertise is necessary while treating this fracture. Biological principles should be followed during fixation of tibial shaft fractures. Intramedullary interlocking nail is a excellent device which provide good fracture stabilization. Objectives: In this study we evaluated the fracture union time and functional outcome following intra medullary nailing in tibial shaft fracture. Materials and Method: 30 patient meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Surgical management was done by the same surgeon. Post operatively patient were followed at intervals of 15 days for the first month followed by monthly visit for next 6 months. Results: the most common age group was between 25-35, and the most common location was at middle third, 70% of the fracture were united wetween 12 to 16 weeks, Conclusion: Closed internal fixation with intramedullary interlocking tibial nail is a standard surgical procedure for management of tibial diaphyseal fractures. The advantage of rapid rehabilitation and relatively few complications serve to recommend it for wider use.