Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures in Adults Treated by Closed Reamed Intramedullary Interlocking Nail: A Follow-Up Study

Abstract

BACKGROUNDClosed Tibial Fractures is one of the commonest injuries among the young and active adults. Intramedullary interlocking nail of these fractures reduces morbidity and provides excellent alignment. OBJECTIVESThis study was intended with the objective of assessing the efficacy of intramedullary interlocking nail in the treatment of closed tibial fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODSThe study was done at a 300 bed tertiary care hospital situated in the heart of Chennai city where more number of orthopaedic cases are admitted. It was done as a hospital-based prospective study during the period of January 2008 to June 2009, among twenty patients admitted with closed tibial diaphyseal fractures. These patients underwent intramedullary interlocking nailing for fracture fixation in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Southern Railway Headquarters Hospital, Chennai. Results: This study has included 20 patients with closed tibial diaphyseal fractures of which 60% of study participants showed excellent results, 20% with good results, fair in 15%, poor in 5%. The complication rate was a little high in this study, which included 10% malunion, 5% of infection and 5% of restriction of ankle and knee movements. Conclusion: Intramedullary interlocking nail is a reliable, versatile and effective treatment for closed tibial diaphyseal fractures as it minimizes the hospital stay and reduces the economic burden and enhances early return to work.