Treatment using Intramedullary Fixation for Open Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures

Lee, Young Goo; Choi, Jnng Seok; Kim, Young Chang; Yoo, Hyun Duck; Seo, Seung Seok; Ha, Sang Hun

Abstract

This fractures of tibial shaft are common and open injuries are frequently accompanied due to its anatomical characteristics. External fixation was widely used for treatment of open fractures of tibia, but recently internal fixation combined with appropriate debridement and antibiotics has been reported, with more comfortness and less secondary operations. We analysed 33 cases of open tibial diaphyseal fractures treated using intramedullary fixation devices. The results were as follows. 1. The methods of fixation were Ender nail, 15 cases, and interlocking nail, 18 cases. And 17 cases out of 18 interlocking nail were unlearned one. 2. The Ender nail was used in 5 cases for open type I fracture, 7 type II, 2 type III-a and 1 type III-b, And the interlocking nail was used in 9 cases for type 1, 7 type II, 1 type IIIa and 1 type III-b. The average operation time was 55 minutes for Ender nail, while 14 minutes for interlocking nail. 3. The Ender nailing group has 6 complications;one case superficial infection, one deep infection, one delayed union, one nonunion and two angulation deformities. The interlocking nailing group has also 6 complications;one case superficial infection, two deep infections, one delayed union, one nonunion and one peroneal nerve palsy. 4. The average union period was 18.4 weeks in Ender nail and 19.1 weeks in interlocking nail.