Evaluating Fixation Strategies in Distal Tibial Fractures: Nailing versus Plating

• DOI: 10.4103/jotr.jotr_92_24
• Publication Date: 2025-03-21T07:01:09Z
• Authors: Brijesh Sharma; Rajat Kapoor; Vivek Mittal; Yashvardhan Sharma; Vishal Singh Anand; Pranjal Gupta; Yuvraj Vimal
• Keywords: Plating (geology); Distal tibia

Abstract Introduction: Distal tibial fractures account for approximately 7% of all and can present a management challenge because their inherent instability, scarcity soft tissues, subcutaneous nature, poor vascularity bone. Despite the availability various modern techniques, there is either no or insufficient evidence to draw definitive conclusions on best surgical intervention. The study compares functional radiological outcomes intramedullary nailing (IMN) with distal tibia-locking compression plates treating extra-articular fractures. Methodology: Ninety patients tibia were included, meeting specific inclusion exclusion criteria. These patients, treated at tertiary care hospital, randomly assigned IMN plate fixation. Data demographics, surgery details, complications recorded. Functional assessed 3, 6, 12 months using Olreud–Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) Radiographic Union Scale Tibial Results: Group B had shorter durations, hospital stay, reached weight-bearing milestones earlier than A. also demonstrated better outcomes, higher OMAS scores superior radiographic union postsurgery. However, both groups similar rates malunion nonunion. A rate superficial wound infections, while reported more cases knee pain. Conclusion: provides postoperative quicker milestones, improved recovery, enhanced healing compared plates. these advantages, each method carries potential complications, highlighting need individualized patient assessment when selecting appropriate treatment approach.