Surgical Techniques of Suprapatellar Nailing in Proximal Tibial Fractures

Abstract

Background: Tibia shaft fractures are the most common lower limb long bone fractures, with approximately 80% occurring in the diaphysis region. Intramedullary interlocking nailing is a common procedure for treating these fractures, typically performed with the injured extremity positioned at a minimum of 90° of knee flexion to achieve optimal exposure of the correct entry point. However, the tension of the quadriceps tendon often leads to a typical apex anterior angulation of the proximal fragment. Suprapatellar nailing, performed with the knee in a semi-extended position, aims to reduce this anterior angulation. The objective of this study is to investigate the outcomes of suprapatellar access for intramedullary nailing in tibia fractures. Methods: This study employs a descriptive longitudinal design. Sixty cases of closed shaft tibia fractures were treated using the suprapatellar nailing technique. Results: Sixty patients with tibia fractures were included in the study. All patients underwent operative procedures involving intramedullary interlocking tibia nails using the suprapatellar approach. Out of the 60 patients treated with the suprapatellar approach, excellent outcomes were observed, with good range of movements and high scores on the lower extremity functional scale. Conclusions: The suprapatellar approach demonstrated excellent outcomes for proximal 1/3rd tibia fractures.

Keywords

• suprapatellar nailing
• surgical techniques
• tibial fractures