Problems, tricks, and pearls in intramedullary nailing of proximal third tibial fractures.

Abstract

UNLABELLED:

Proximal third tibial shaft fractures have been notoriously difficult to treat. Early reports resulting in high rates of malunion and fixation failure trended surgeons to move away from intramedullary nailing as definitive treatment. However, with the advent of a deepened understanding of the surround anatomy, several techniques have been developed to help maintain proper alignment without early failure or malunion. This review provides a concise update on the tips, tricks, and pearls available in achieving a stable well-aligned construct when definitively treating proximal third tibial shaft fractures via intramedullary nail.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

• Authors: Frank A Liporace, Christopher M Stadler, Richard S Yoon
• Journal: Journal of orthopaedic trauma (J Orthop Trauma) Vol. 27 Issue 1 Pg. 56-62 (Jan 2013) ISSN: 1531-2291 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 22437426 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Topics

• Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary (methods)
• Humans
• Tibial Fractures (pathology, surgery)
• Treatment Outcome