Blocking Pins Instead of Blocking Screws in the Treatment of Distal Tibial Fractures with Intramedullary Nail

Abstract

Background: Distal tibial fractures have a high risk of malalignment when treated with intramedullary nails. The use of blocking screws can aid in achieving satisfactory alignment. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of temporary blocking pins with those of blocking screws for distal tibial fractures. Methods: From June 2011 through November 2018, a total of 90 patients with distal tibial fractures were enrolled in this prospective randomized controlled study. The patients were randomly received either blocking pins or blocking screws reduction during nailing. After reduction, 5 points at the distal fragment were effectively fixed. Results: The operating time in the BP group was 73.77±6.25 min, which was significantly shorter than 80.05±8.51 min in the BS group (P<0.001). The time to healing in the BP group was shorter than that in the BS group (18.52±4.57 vs. 21.51±3.17 weeks; P=0.001). The coronal and sagittal plane deformities at any time points were comparable (all P＞0.05). During the 12-month follow-up period, patients had an average change in the coronal plane of 1.34 degrees in the BP group and 1.00 degrees in the BS group (P=0.120), as well as an average change in the sagittal plane of 1.09 degrees and 0.81 degrees (P=0.110), respectively. Malunion was seen in two patients (5%) in the BP group and one patient (2%) in the BS group ( P＞0.05). Conclusion: The blocking pins can help achieve satisfactory alignment for distal tibial fractures during nailing. Intramedullary nails without blocking screws can afford adequate stability to maintain the reduction during the healing process when an effective five-point anchoring fixation is achieved.