A Prospective Study of Fractures of the Tibial Shaft Treated with Intramedullary Interlocking Nail : Comparing One versus Two Distal Screws

Lee, Eun Woo; Kang, Ki Ser; Kang, Soo Yong; Jang, Eui Chan; Lee, Jin Woo

Abstract

In non-randomized prospective study, 67 tibial fractures were treated with intramedullary inter-locking nail. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the number of distal locking screw. Group I was consisted of 33 fractures treated with one distal locking screw Group II was consisted of 34 fractures treated with two distal locking screws. The patients were followed up for an average of 12 months. There was no statistically significant difference between group I and II with regard to total operation time, fracture union time. However fluoroscopic time was significantly longer at group II than group I. Serial radiographs of patients in both group were analyzed for change of hardware and fracture healing postoperatively. No significant difference was found between two groups in fracture union time, hardware failure and complications in proximal and middle tibial fracture. But the angulation and locking screw breakage were significant in group I in distal tibia fracture. We concluded that fracture of the proximal and middle third of the tibia that require interlocking nail can be successfully treated with a single distal locking screw. However, in fractures of the distal one third, two distal locking screws should be required to prevent of angular deformity in sagittal plane and for stablefixaton. The use of a single distal locking screw reduces operation time, radiation exposure, local soft tissue discomfort and cost without compromizing fracture union.