Clinical Outcome after Treatment of Tibia Segmental Fracture with Intramedullary Nailing and Minimal Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis

Abstract

Financial support: None. Conflict of interests: None. Purpose: This study examined the clinical outcomes after the treatment of a tibia segmental fracture with intramedullary nailing (IM nailing) and minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). Materials and Methods: From July 2012 to December 2017, 14 out of 17 cases from a treatment cohort of 32 cases of AO type 42 C2 tibia segmental fractures with IM nailing and MIPO were studied retrospectively. Periodic radiographs were used to evaluate the presence of union, union time, and radiographic evaluation of bony union (varus-valgus deformity, anteroposterior angular deformity, shortening). To evaluate the postoperative clinical function, modified Rasmussen’s system was used for proximal fractures, and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society functional score was used for distal fractures. Results: Bony union was achieved in all 14 cases, and the average union time was 26 weeks. In one case of soil contamination, there were no other complications other than simple debridement after a soft tissue infection. The mean varus was two degrees; the mean anteroposterior angular deformity was three degrees of anterior oblique; the mean length shortening was 5 mm (2-9 mm). The mean functional score of the knee joint with the Modified Rasmussen’s system measured for the postoperative clinical function was relatively good (excellent 9, good 4, fair 1, and poor 0). The results of the Molander and Olerud Functional scores of the ankle joints were also good (excellent 8, good 3, fair 2, poor 0). Conclusion: The treatment of tibia segmental fractures with IM nailing and MIPO can effectively reduce the gap of fracture sites. Hence, it is possible to increase the bony union probability and obtain relatively satisfactory alignment. Overall, the treatment of tibia segmental fractures with IM nailing and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis appears to be a useful treatment, considering the preservation of the soft tissue and the alignment of the tibia.