Classification of Proximal Tibial Fractures and Algorithm of Intramedullary Nailing: Efficacy Evaluation

Abstract

Background: Intramedullary nailing of proximal tibial fractures is challenging due to difficulties with fracture reduction and achievement of stable fixation. Preoperative planning based on proximal fragment length, fracture pattern and bone quality evaluation is a prerequisite for a successful operation. However, there is no classification that could adequately access these factors and guide us towards the most effective methods of fracture reduction and fixation with intramedullary nail. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a classification of extra-articular proximal tibial fractures and algorithm for intramedullary nailing in clinical conditions. Methods: We compared the treatment outcomes before (Group 1) and after (Group 2) the introduction of the new PFL-TN classification algorithm of intramedullary nailing of proxamal tibial fractures. The group 1 included 43 patients from 18 to 71 years old (males 28; females 15; average age 44.52.0 years). The group 2 included 42 patients from 18 to 72 years old (males 30; females 12; average age 46.12.0 years). The data analysis was carried out after a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. The results were analyzed by the following criteria: reduction quality assesed with reduction quality scale, number of complications, quality of life with SF-36 questionnaire and leg function with LEFS scale. Results: The introduction of the proposed algorithm allowed to reduce the number of late complications by more than 5 times, and the number of required additional surgical interventions by more than 4 times compared to with a control group. The introduction of the proposed algorithm made it possible to improve the functional outcomes 1 year after surgery from 83.58 to 93.29% (p = 0.00002) by the LEFS scale, and the patients quality of life from the 77.501.88 to 86.712.03 points (p = 0.00072) and from the 81.251.88 to 86.842.26 points (p = 0.00116) by the physical and role functioning scales SF-36 questionnaire. Conclusions: The proposed algorithm, based on the new classification, allows to optimize the surgical technique of intramedullary nailing of proximal tibial fractures.

Keywords

• proximal tibial fractures
• intramedullary nailing
• treatment algorithm
• classification
• preoperative planning