The Use of Ender Nails in Fractures of the Tibial Shaft

Kim, Keun Woo; Kim, Sang Lim; Ko, Han Suk; Oh, Whan Jin; Park, Chong Wha

Abstract

Twenty one cases of adult tibial shaft fractures were fixed with flexible intramedullary nails at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Kang Nam General Hospital. The results are summerized as follows; l. Average healing time was 17 weeks. No case of nonunion was experienced. 2. As the operation was perfomed by closed method under fluoroscopic control, reduction of operation time is a major advantage. 3. Fixation was usually strong enough to allow immediate weightbearing and mobilization of the adjacent joints without external immobilization. 4. Three cases of delayed union and 2 cases of rotational malunion were experienced, but shortening and angulation were not so severe as to affect overall functional results. 5. In conclusion, Ender nailing is considered to be a valuable method in treating tibial shaft fractures. Even in cases with multiple injuries and in selected open cases, Ender nailing can be a saft procedure.