To compare outcomes in patients with diaphyseal fracture of tibia managed by intramedullary nailing with intact fibula vs fracture tibia with fibula

Introduction: Fractures of the tibia and fibula are relatively common and have been recognized as serious and debilitating injuries for centuries. The primary aim of the study was to compare outcomes in patient with a diaphyseal fracture of tibia managed by intramedullary nailing with intact fibula Vs fracture both bone of the leg. Method: Total of 72 patients were included in this study. They were divided into 2 groups. Group A (12 out of 72) comprised patients with tibial diaphysis fracture alone, and Group B (60 out of 72) was made up of patients with both bone fractures of leg. Reamed intramedullary nailing was done in both Groups. Both the groups were followed up and compared in terms of duration of surgery, the rate of union. Result: The average duration of surgery (group A-108 minutes, Group B-98.6 minutes), the rate of union was longer [20 weeks in group A and 18.2 weeks in group B] in group A. Group A were more proven for union-related problem. In group A, the delayed union was seen in 6 (50%) cases out of which 4 united readily with fibular osteotomy/partial fibulectomy and 2 patients were diagnosed with non-union. In group B, the delayed union was seen only in 4 (6.66%) and none were progressed to non-union. Conclusion: Fracture tibia with intact fibula are more proven for union-related problems when compared to both bone leg fracture. Partial fibulectomy is an effective intervention in the management of delayed union in isolated tibia fracture.