Abstract
Introduction
This retrospective study was designed to define the technical details for the treatment for distal tibial fractures with intramedullary nails and blocking screws, and to assess the effectiveness of the method based on our clinical practice.
Materials and methods
Twenty-one patients in whom adequate reduction could not be achieved with distal tibial intramedullary nailing, blocking screws were inserted under fluoroscopy. Blocking screws were inserted from the medial side in eighteen patients, in the medial and anterior side in one patient, and in the posterior side in two patients. Patients were followed up clinically and radiologically. Fracture alignment and union were monitored by X-ray, and complications were noted.
Results
Neutral alignment with union in both coronal and sagittal plane was achieved in all patients. None of the patients experienced infection. The only complication of the blocking screws was fissure in one patient in the location of the screw during surgery. In another patient, nonunion was developed with 8° flexion angle. Union was achieved in this patient at 9 months with auto grafting.
Conclusion
Blocking screws helped to achieve better reduction and alignment with intramedullary nailing of distal tibial fractures by decreasing the effective diameter of the medullary canal. The use of blocking screws enabled to use the intramedullary nailing as an alternative while treating distal tibial fractures.
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Seyhan, M., Kocaoglu, B., Gereli, A. et al. Treatment for distal tibial fractures with intramedullary nails and blocking screws. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 22, 395–401 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-011-0853-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-011-0853-3