Radiological and clinical results of tibia fractures operated with the suprapatellar approach;one center experience

Aim: Tibial fractures are the most common fractures in the lower extremity. Intramedullary nailing is a widely used surgical technique for the treatment of tibial fractures. The aim of this retrospective study is to analyse the clinical and radiological outcomes of suprapatellar tibial nailing performed in a single centre.Methods: The study was conducted at a single center between January 2020 and June 2022. Patients treated for tibial fractures at the age of 18 years or older, having acute tibia fractures amenable to suprapatellar nailing, and having available preoperative and postoperative radiographs and clinical follow-up data. Included in this study. Clinical outcomes were assessed by examining range of motion of the knee joint, Visual Analog Score for pain and Lysnholm scale for knee joint functions. Radiological outcomes, including fracture healing, alignment, were also evaluated using postoperative radiographs. Complications, such as malalignment, non-union, infection, and knee stiffness, were recorded.Results: 12 patients were included in this study. Mean age was 35,25 and 9 were male. Mean follow up time was 20 mounth. All the fractures healed during the last examination. The mean VAS Score was 1.33 and. Lysholm’s score was 92,5. There were no malunion according to the x ray examinations. Range of motion of the knee was between 120 degrees flexion and 180 degrees extension. The maximum shift was 9 degrees.Conclusion: According to the findings of this current study suggest that suprapatellar tibial nailing technique is a viable option for treatment of tibial shaft fractures. This approach is associated with lower rates of anterior knee pain as reported in the literature, alongside excellent union rates and clinical functional scores.