Association Between Fracture Pattern and Union Outcome Following Tibial Interlocking Nailing

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Tibial fractures are common long-bone injuries that are particularly susceptible to delayed healing, infection, and non-union because of their subcutaneous location, limited soft tissue coverage, and tenuous blood supply. Although rigid intramedullary nailing is widely used for tibia shaft fractures, the relationship between fracture pattern and union outcome remains insufficiently established. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the association between fracture pattern and union outcome following tibial interlocking nailing. Methods & Materials: This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, from September 2018 to August 2020, involving 70 patients with tibial fractures treated with tibial interlocking nailing. Clinical, radiological, fracture-related, union, and postoperative complication data were collected and analyzed using SPSS. Fisher's exact test assessed the association between fracture pattern and union outcome, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among 70 participants, the mean age was 33.5 ± 10.3 years, with male predominance (59, 84.3%). Right-sided fractures (38, 54.3%) and comminuted fractures (22, 31.4%) were most common, while middle-third fractures predominated (37, 52.9%). Union within 24 weeks was achieved in 60 (85.7%), with delayed union in 10 (14.3%); the association with fracture pattern was not significant (p = 0.295). Postoperative complications were uncommon, with 65 (92.9%) having none. Conclusion: Tibial interlocking nailing provides favorable union outcomes with low postoperative complications, while fracture pattern is not significantly associated with union outcome. Key words: Fracture Pattern, Union Outcome, Tibial Interlocking Nailing