Extreme nailing and immediate weight bearing constructs in fractures of the distal tibia.

Abstract

Extraarticular fractures of the distal tibia can present as difficult but manageable lower extremity injuries. Historically, these injuries have been fixed in a myriad of ways. Early management with intramedullary nailing had higher complication rates due to the unique anatomical and biomechanical features of the distal tibia. Modern improvements in intramedullary nailing surgical techniques and implant design have significantly decreased complication rates and led to improvement in patient outcomes. Many surgeons protect weight bearing postoperatively, but recent literature suggests that patients may safely weight bear immediately following intramedullary fixation. This article reviews technique and implant design changes that have facilitated immediate safe weight bearing following intramedullary nailing of extraarticular distal tibia fractures.