Intramedullary Nail for a Distal Tibia Fracture.

Abstract

Extraarticular fractures of the distal tibia have historically been treated with open reduction and fixation with plates and screws. This technique requires a more extensive dissection and comes with a higher risk of wound complications than intramedullary nail fixation. This article and the accompanying video demonstrate the use of closed reduction and suprapatellar nail fixation appropriate for the treatment of most extraarticular distal tibial fractures. A variety of treatment decisions are discussed, including the nail insertion method, fixation of associated fibular fractures, and postoperative immobilization.