Management of Fractures of Distal third Tibia by Interlock Nailing

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Most of the distal third tibia is subcutaneous and has precarious blood supply. Fractures of the distal third tibia have comminution at the fracture site, as it is metaphyseal cancellous bone with a thin shell of cortex, and have associated significant soft tissue injury. Generally, skin condition is not satisfactory due to ecchymosis, blebs, swellings, wounds, etc. All these factors contribute to delayed union, nonunion, and malunion.

The present study is about the ability to maintain a mechanically stable reduction in the distal third tibia with intramedullary nail, when lower 4 cm of tibia not fractured. If associated with fibula fracture (in lower 10 cm), it is always fixed as a rule to give stability to syndesmosis and stability to same-level tibia fracture.

Materials and methods

From January 2013 to March 2015, 60 patients of distal tibia fracture admitted to Government Medical College and Hospital, Latur, were operated and followed up prospectively.

Results

Mean age of patients was 35 years (25–50). Fracture union was seen radiologically within 3 to 4 months, depending on fracture geometry.

Conclusion

We conclude that results of fractures of distal third tibia not extending into lower 4 cm of tibia treated with interlock nailing were found satisfactory. Meticulous planning and placement of nail at the center of a wide metaphysis in the anteroposterior and lateral is mandatory to avoid varus, valgus, and posterior tilt. Polar screw or temporary K-wire during surgery is very helpful. Same-level fibula fracture fixation with a plate or square nail is very effective for stability of reduction.

How to cite this article

Gawali SR, Kukale SB, Nirvane PV, Toshniwal RO. Management of Fractures of Distal third Tibia by Interlock Nailing. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2016;3(1):15-22.