Reliability of the radiographic union score for tibial fractures.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the recently developed Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures (RUST) scoring system and clinical outcomes in tibial fractures. The study included 41 patients with tibia shaft fractures who underwent intramedullary nailing between 2005 and 2010. Mean follow-up period was 26.32 (range: 12 to 48) months. Clinical outcomes were measured using the Karlström-Olerud physical function scale, VAS score and SF-36 physical function and pain scores during follow-up. RUST scores were noted after radiological evaluation. RUST scores accurately reflected healing and union of the bone (p<0.05). RUST scoring also showed significant correlation with widely used physical and pain scoring systems (SF-36, VAS and Karlström-Olerud). The RUST scoring system appears to be a reliable tool for the evaluation of clinical outcomes in management of tibial fracture.