[Intramedullary nailing of proximal tibial fractures. Complications and risk factors].

INTRODUCTION

We performed a consecutive study on patients with proximal tibial fractures without joint participation to determine the early clinical and radiological outcome.

PATIENTS: From January 2000 to December 2005, 22 fractures of the proximal and proximal diaphyseal tibia without joint participation were operated on using the new tibia nail. A total of 18 patients (82%) completed full follow-up after 6 weeks and 3 and 6 months.

RESULTS

Two primary and one secondary malalignment were observed Two of them were initially polytraumatised. Furthermore, two patients developed a delayed union, and one non-union occurred. Risk factors for limited bony consolidation were smoking and an open fracture. Screw or nail breakage did not occur, and no infection was observed.