Comparative Study of External Fixator versus Internal Fixation Using Interlocking Nail in Open Diaphyseal Fractures of Tibia: An Hospital Based Prospective Study

ABSTRACT

Background: External fixation and internal fixation usingintramedullary nails are two well-accepted and effectivemethods, but each has been historically related tocomplications. We therefore performed a prospective study tocompare the early functional recovery and overall results withthese two methods of management.Materials & Methods: This prospective randomized study wascarried out on the patients admitted in the Department ofOrthopaedics, Dr S.N. Medical College, Jodhpur. The studyincluded 30 patients of Open Diaphyseal Fractures of Tibia. Ofthese, 15 patients were treated by intramedullary interlockingnailing and the remaining 15 patients by External Fixator asprimary fixation method. Patient able to walk without supportwithout pain were considered union clinically. Johner AndWruhs Criteria, 1983 were used to evaluate functionaloutcome.Results: Our study showed that the mean age was 32.4 yearsin ILN group and 34 years in external fixation group. The maleto female ratio was approximate 41. In present study showedthat the road traffic accident were most of the injury (80%) ingroup A as compared to group B (93.33%). The farmer & laborwas higher incidence of tibial fractures, which are higherdemanding activity and lower incidence of fractures wasoccurred in low demanding activity occupation. The outcome ofour study showed that excellent in 73.33% cases in group A ascompared to 53.33% in group B. Poor outcome maximum ingroup B was 20% cases as compared to 6.66% in group A.Conclusion: We concluded that in open tibial shaft fractureintramedullary interlocked nailing is excellent modalities,leading to accepted union with a mild delay but permissibleearly weight bearing and low patient morbidity