Interlocking Intramedullary Nail in Distal Tibia Fracture

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectivity of interlocking intramedullary nailing for distal tibia fracture and prognostic factor to bone healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From April 2000 to June 2005, 21 cases who had distal tibia fracture were treated by interlocking intramedullary nail were analyzed. The duration of follow-up was more than 1 year. We evaluated clinical results by IOWA ANKLE rating system and union time by simple X-ray. Furthermore, we estimated prognostic factor to union time. RESULTS: The bone union was achieved at average 18.5 weeks. At the last follow-up, there was no non-union and infection. Average IOWA ANKLE rating score was 91.3 point. The union time was delayed in open and segmental fracture at initial fracture. And severe soft tissue injury in open fracture revealed bad result. CONCLUSION: We concluded that interlocking intramedullary nail is effective method for treatment of the distal tibial fractures. And, adequate soft tissue management is important to bone healing and clinical outcome.