Outcome of Intramedullary Interlocking Nailing in the Management of Gustillo-I Diaphyseal Fracture of Tibia

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of intramedullary interlocking nailing in the management of Gustillo-I diaphyseal fracture of tibia.

Study Design: This is an observational study.

Setting: Study carried out at Orthopaedic Surgery department, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro, form March 2018 to February 2021.

Materials & Methods: 72 consecutive patients of Gustillo Type-I diaphyseal fracture of tibia. All patients age between 18-60 years with traumatic fracture like Gustillo Type-I diaphyseal fracture of tibia were included in this study. Patients reported chest, abdominal and head trauma with neurovascular deficit were excluded. Patients were prepared for surgery after relevant investigation and radiographs.

Results: Out of 72 patients included in this study 11.11% were female (N=8) and 88.88% male (N=64); with mean age was 38.26±8.20 years (Range 18 to 60 years). Road traffic accident was common cause of tibia fracture (Gustillo Type-I). Postoperative mean union time of tibial fractures were 9.9±3. 2 week.Postoperatively started partial weight bearing associated with help of two axillary crutches. The patients walking with partial weight bearing allowed at 4.1±1.12 weeks. While patients walking with full weight bearing allowed at 10.8±2.4 weeks. Postoperatively 11(15.27%) patients were complaining of pain. Wound infection observed in 7(9.72%) cases. Clinically excellent results were found in 24(33.33%) patients, while good results remained in 30(41.66%) patients and fairs in 18(25%) patients.

Conclusion: We conclude that interlocking intra-medullary nailing may be considered as a suitable option for treatment of Gustilo-I diaphyseal fracture of tibia.