Intramedullary nailing in the management of distal tibial fractures

Background Quarter distal tibial fractures are difficult to manage. The particular local anatomic characteristics and the risk of soft-tissue injury contribute to the high rate of complications after open surgical intervention. The role of intramedullary nailing in the treatment of distal tibial fractures is still usually not considered by all surgeons. This retrospective study was performed to evaluate the functional results and the practicability of using interlocking nails to treat such fractures. Methods Using the method of closed reduction and internal fixation with a shortened tibial interlocking nail, 33 consecutive patients with distal tibial fractures were treated from 2004 to 2007. The ankle function was evaluated with the Olerud Ankle Score. Results Our results were satisfactory, and all of the fractures united solidly with a mean union time of 17.5 weeks. No major complications occurred. Conclusion Tibial intramedullary nailing is a safe alternative option for managing quarter distal tibial fractures.