Treatment of diaphyseal tibial fracture nonunion with an intramedullary micromotion tibial nail: a case series

Despite modern advancements in nailing techniques, delayed healing and nonunion of tibial fractures remains an important clinical problem. Tibial nonunions are reported to occur at a rate of 7–19 % based on data from North American Level 1 trauma centres. Patients may require repeated operations over a protracted period of care. These nonunions finally heal at an average of 20 months after the initial injury. Early evidence from ovine studies and clinical trials has suggested that axial micromotion mediates faster tibial fracture healing compared to rigid fixation. In this case series, we present our experience with treating tibial shaft fracture nonunion with an intramedullary micromotion nail.