Outcome Analysis of Intramedullary Interlocking Nail in Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: The preferred and universally accepted management modality for a tibia diaphyseal fracture is closed reduction and intramedullary interlocking nailing. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of intramedullary interlocking nails in individuals with diaphysis of tibia fracture.

Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out between September 2020 to February 2022. Thirty cases of the 33 patients with tibia diaphysis fractures who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study and were under regular follow-up. All patients had intramedullary interlocking nailing for diaphysis of tibia fracture, and routine follow-ups in the outpatient department to assess the outcome according to the modified Johner and Wruh criterion.

Results: Thirty cases were analyzed, and males (60%) were more frequently afflicted. More fractures were caused by road traffic accidents than by sports, falls from a height, or injuries sustained at home. A radiological union was observed at 12 to 16 weeks, while clinical union was observed at 10 to 14 weeks. Five individuals (16.7%) reported having mild anterior knee pain. Two patients with Gustilo II fracture experienced superficial infections. In 60% of the cases, there were excellent results, and in 33.3%, there were good results. Six percent of instances had a fair outcome.

Conclusion: Tibial IMIL nail can be employed with excellent and good results in closed, Gustilo I, and II tibial diaphyseal fractures. These enable early mobilization, quicker union, few problems, and an early resumption of activities done prior to the injury.