The unreamed tibial nail in the treatment of distal metaphyseal fractures.

In recent years biological surgical solutions have been recommended in cases of distal tibial fractures, with the aim of reducing damage to soft tissues and to bone vascular supply. Between the years 1991-1995, 52 patients suffering from fractures of the distal tibial metaphysis were treated in our department with an unreamed tibial nail (UTN). Fractures were categorized in accordance with the AO Classification. 32 fractures had no articular involvement (43A1, 43A2, 43A3) and 20 included intra-articular extension (43C1, 43C2). 32 fractures had significant metaphyseal comminution (43A2, 43A3, 43C2). 12 were open fractures. All the fractures were treated by means of UTN using distal locking. In 13 patients an additional percutaneous interfragmentary fixation was also applied. 22 patients underwent an additional operation in order to facilitate bone union (dynamization, bone grafting and/or fibulectomy). In 50 of the 52 patients the fracture united with a very good range of knee and ankle motion. In 2 patients non-union with breakage of the UTN occurred and in two open fractures post-operative infections were observed. Our experience with the treatment of fractures of the distal tibia, including intra-articular fractures with no comminution, points at an excellent functional outcome with a low incidence of complications.