Comparison of Union Rate of Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures Treated with Intramedullary Interlocking (IIL) Nails Versus Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP)

Union Rate in Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures

Abstract

Background: In modern era high speed vehicular traffic accident fractures of the tibial shaft are common injuries among the long bones and mainly affect young adults, individuals at their peak of physical and work capacity. This study compares the effectiveness of interlock intramedullary nailing and Dynamic Compression Plating (DCP) for treating tibial diaphyseal fractures. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the union rate of DCP and intramedullary interlocking nail in diaphyseal fractures of the tibia. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial. Settings: Department of Orthopaedic surgery Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: Nine months from April 2023 to December 2023. Methods: The study includes a sample size of 54 patients (27 patients in each group). Patients were randomly divided into nail and plate groups. All patients were operated by same team of surgeons and results regarding union rate were compared for the two procedures by randomized controlled trial up to nine months. Results: A total of 54 patients were enrolled in the study (27 in each group). Out of 27 patients in the nail group, 21(77.78%) had radiological union at last follow up whereas 25 out of 27(92.59%) had union in plate group at same follow up period. Conclusion: We concluded that union rate of Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP) is better than interlocking nail. Although, implementation of interlocking nail is ideal in diaphyseal fractures. Furthermore nail allows early mobilization and weight bearing but union rate is lower than Dynamic Compression Plates.