[Treatment of hypertrophic non union of the distal tibial shaft with percutaneously inserted locking plate Initial report on experience in 4 cases].

Hypertrophic nonunions of the distal, dia-/metaphyseal tibial shaft are still considered to be a problematic challenge. The use of a locking plate system (LCP) as an alternative treatment option was evaluated in these nonunions. This retrospective, nonrandomized study included four male patients (mean age 52.5 years) with hypertrophic nonunions of the distal dia-/metaphyseal tibial shaft treated with a locking compression plate (LCP) by percutaneous technique. The following parameters were evaluated: fracture type (AO), primary fracture care, operation technique of the nonunion, healing of the nonunion, ability to work, complications, and clinical result (function of the upper ankle joint). Primarily, there were 3 cases of open fractures. Three fractures were located in the dia-/metaphyseal region and primarily treated with an unreamed tibial nail (UTN), while 1 open metaphyseal fracture was treated with an external fixator. The mean interval between injury and operation of the nonunion was 9.1 (4.4-12) months. All nonunions healed within 3 (2-4) months. The mean clinical and radiological follow-up was 11.5 (9-14) months. All patients were able to work within an average of 2.3 months. The function of the upper ankle joint was unrestricted in 3 cases, and in 1 case there was a mild functional deficit. The use of an interlocking plate for the management of hypertrophic nonunions of the distal tibial shaft represents a reliable, new treatment option.