Exchange Nailing Research Articles

A case of subtrochanteric femur fracture nonunion with failed implant in situ treated with exchange nailing using interlock nail and autologous bone grafting: a case report

<p class="abstract">Subtrochanteric femur fracture accounts for 25% of all hip fracture and may land up in non-union due to the inadequate reduction and fixation tech, local muscle pull over fragments, biomechanical stress in subtrochanteric region and soft tissue interposition etc., non-union are managed with various choices of implants like exchange nailing , angle blade plate , dynamic condylar screw, augmentation of previous hardware with plate and by providing biological environments at fracture site using bone graft. Strict adherence to principles of providing stability to fracture and providing environment for bony growth gives good clinical outcome. A 52 years old male with subtrochanteric femur fracture was operated with long PFN, later presented to us after 18 months with failure of the hardware and atrophic non-union manifesting as pain during walking and limping. Patient was operated with removal of implant and exchange nailing using femur interlock nail and autologous bone grafting from iliac crest graft. 1 year follow up showed complete bony union and abundant of callus formation. Patient is currently doing all the daily activities and have no complaints at present. At 1 year follow up there is complete union at non-union site and good clinical outcome is achieved. Exchange nailing with interlock nail and autologous bone grafting for treatment of atrophic non-union of subtrochanteric femur fractures gives good clinical outcome.</p>

Contemporary management of aseptic diaphyseal tibia non-unions – A systematic review

IntroductionTibia fractures are the most common long bone injuries encountered in the trauma population. The majority are treated successfully but non-union remains a common complication. A systematic review of current evidence regarding the management for aseptic diaphyseal tibial non-unions was undertaken. MethodsA systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA), was conducted. ResultsA total of 632 publications were screened for inclusion. Full text review of 91 studies resulted in 26 publications being retained for final review. The majority of patients included in the studies either underwent exchange nailing (n=315) or primary intramedullary nailing (n=174) with respective union rates of 88% and 95% being achieved. The highest union rate (97%) was achieved with the use of fine wire external fixation. The major adjuvant treatment modalities were fibula osteotomies (n=372; 41%), fixation dynamization (n=208; 23%) and bone grafting (n=183; 20%). ConclusionThe lack of standardization in reporting of outcomes and the diversity of management strategies employed precludes definitive conclusions or recommendations. Further research is required to ascertain the ideal treatment strategy in the management of aseptic tibial diaphyseal non-unions. Level of evidenceIV.

Augmented compression in exchange nailing for femoral and tibial non-unions accelerates time to radiographic union.

Exchange nailing is widely used for the management of aseptic femoral and tibial non-union. Compressive forces markedly reduce strain, increasing rate and incidence of union. Additional compressive forces can be applied to the non-union site by using the design features of some modern nailing systems. This study hypothesises that the use of additional compression in exchange nailing results in faster time to union. All femoral and tibial shaft non-unions were identified over a 4-year period between 2014-2018. Intraoperative compression during exchange nailing was either applied or not applied with a dedicated active compression device through the intramedullary nail. An initial 'radiographic union score for tibia' (RUST) score was calculated from preoperative lateral and AP radiographs and compared with the postoperative radiographs at 6-8weeks. Healing was defined as bridging callus on at least three cortices (RUST > 10). A total of 119 patients were identified. Following application of exclusion criteria, we analysed data for 19 patients, 10 undergoing exchange nailing with intraoperative compression and 9 without. The pre-exchange RUST score was comparable between the compressed group and standard exchange group with mean of 7.11 versus 7.5 (p = 0.636). At 6-8weeks post-op, there was a significant difference between the median RUST score in the compressed group vs standard exchange group, 11 compared to 8.39 (p = 0.001). Our study shows that time to union was accelerated when additional compression was applied to exchange nailing, resulting in reduced follow-up visits and number of radiographs required.

Antirotational plating combined with bone grafting for nonisthmal femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing: a retrospective study

Objective: Exchange nailing for aseptic femoral shaft nonunion is currently a standard orthopedic treatment modality. However, according to recent studies there is occasionally a high failure rate when exchange nailing is used. In the present study, augmentative locked plating and bone graft was used as an alternative method for treating such cases. The purpose of this study was to report the treatment outcomes of antirotational plating (ARP) combined with bone grafting with a retained nail left in situ for nonisthmal femoral shaft nonunion after femoral nailing. Materials and Methods: Fifty-three patients presenting with nonisthmal femoral shaft nonunion after femoral nailing were selected (according to inclusion criteria) for a retrospective study from April 2012 to June 2016. All patients received treatment with ARP entailing a nail left in situ and combined with bone grafting. Main result measures include union time, union rate, and operation time, amount of bleeding during operation. Follow-ups, including radiologic and clinical function examinations, were carried out at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 months after surgery and then once a year, to monitor callus growth and functional recovery of the injured limb. Results: All patients achieved bone union by 6.4 months clinically (4–8 mo) on average and 5.2 months radiologically (2–16 mo), without any intervening measures during follow-up. Mean operation time was 99.3±27.8 minutes (range=50–215 min), and mean blood loss was 494.9±281.3 mL (20–1400 mL). The average follow-up time was 18.7 months (12–26 mo). All patients in the current study achieved bone union (100%). We observed no postoperative complications, such as failure of internal fixation, infections, angular or rotational malunion. Physicians removed the intramedullary nail and plate from 5 patients 11–16 months after the operation without any refracture. During the last follow-up, all patients could flex their knees >100 degrees. Conclusions: AR with a nail left in situ, combined with bone grafting, is an effective treatment option for nonisthmal femoral shaft nonunions.

Reunion of post nail aseptic non-union of diaphyseal femoral fractures by augmentation plating, decortication and bone grafting - Replacement for exchange nailing.

The aim is to re-unite post nail aseptic non-union of diaphyseal femoral fractures in an economical and safe way with almost certainty, reducing dependence on others with early rehabilitation. The cascade of fracture healing is dependent on mechanical stability and uninterrupted cellular and bio-chemical responses (biology). Intra-medullary nailing in fresh diaphyseal femoral fractures is gold standard treatment with high success rate, still non-union of these fractures is reported, though the incidence has declined considerably. This prospective study conducted at level one trauma centre on twenty-one patients in four years starting from July 2015 to June 2019. Eighteen patients had non-union with intact implant and three had broken nail. Non-union site approached through lateral approach. Non-union site fixed by 4.5 broad combi-hole LCP or distal femoral locking compression plate (DF-LCP) depending on fracture site. Decortication, Bone grafting done retaining the previous nail in situ in eighteen patients and in three patients, broken nail was exchanged with same size of unreamed nail and then, similar procedure carried out. All non-unions in 21 patients reunited without any complications. All patients regained painless unsupported walk. The most preferred treatment for this complex non-union is reamed exchanged nailing. Larger nail increases mechanical stability by better frictional contact with surrounding bone in isthumic fracture but fails in cases of fractures with comminution, spacious distal fragment and fracture with small distal fragment. Various studies reported success rate in reamed exchange nailing from 53-96% with an average 74%. The main cause of instability is rotational stress which is completely obliterated by augmentation plating and various studies report 100% success. Augmentation plate with retained nail increases stiffness and strength of construct. Concomitant decortication and cancellous bone graft stimulates osteogenesis. It is a simple, safe and economical procedure, correcting and providing both mechanical and biological environments to convert non-union into osseous union. It will be a treatment of choice in times to come.

Tibial lengthening using a retrograde magnetically driven intramedullary lengthening device in 10 patients with preexisting ankle and hindfoot fusion

Background and purpose — Motorized intramedullary lengthening nails (ILNs) have been developed as an alternative to external fixators for long bone lengthening. The antegrade approach represents the standard method for tibial ILN insertion. In patients with preexisting ankle and hindfoot fusion a retrograde approach provides an alternative technique that has not been evaluated so far. We report the outcome of this method in 10 patients. Patients and methods — This retrospective study included 10 patients (mean age 18 years [13–25]) with preexisting ankle and hindfoot fusion who underwent tibial lengthening with a retrograde ILN (PRECICE). The mean leg length discrepancy (LLD) was 58 mm (36–80). The underlying conditions were congenital (n = 9) and post tumor resection (n = 1). The main outcome measures were: ILN reliability, distraction achieved, distraction index (DIX), time to bone healing, consolidation index (CIX), complications, and functional results. Results — All patients achieved the goal of lengthening (mean 48 mm [26–80]). Average DIX was 0.6 mm/day (0.5–0.7) and mean CIX was 44 days/cm (26–60). Delayed consolidation occurred in 2 patients and healed after ILN dynamization or nail exchange with grafting. Toe contractures in 2 other patients were resolved with physiotherapy or tenotomy. Until last follow-up (mean 18 months [12–30]) no true complications were encountered, knee motion remained unaffected, and full osseous consolidation occurred in all patients. Interpretation — In patients with LLD and preexisting ankle and hindfoot fusion distal tibial lengthening using a retrograde ILN is a reliable alternative to the standard approach with equivalent bone healing potential and low complication rates leaving the knee unaffected.

Reamed Exchange Nailing in Nonunion of Tibial Shaft Fractures: A Review of the Current Evidence.

One of the most dreaded complications of fracture management is a nonunion. Nonunions are usually difficult to manage and can be a source of significant mental, physical, and financial distress to the patient. The incidence of nonunion is dependent on multiple factors including degree of comminution, open versus closed, concomitant infection, and vascular status, and therefore the management of such nonunions continues to be an often debated topic. Currently, there is no clear consensus on the role of reamed exchange nailing for tibial shaft nonunions. While reamed exchange nailing for aseptic tibial shaft nonunions has shown promising results, with very high union rates, many surgeons prefer newer novel techniques such as plating along with osteoperiosteal decortication or the use of more conventional compressive plating with bone grafts. The aim of this article is to critically review and understand the available evidence base on reamed exchange nailing in nonunion of tibial shaft fractures and to explore the other options available and their indications.

Exchange Nailing for Aseptic Nonunion of the Femoral Shaft after Intramedullary Nailing

Purpose Although exchange nailing is a standard method of treating femoral shaft nonunion, various rates of healing, ranging from 72% to 100%, have been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of exchange nailing in femoral shaft nonunion. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 30 cases of aseptic femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing. The mean postsurgical period of nonunion was 66.8 weeks. A nail at least 2 mm larger in diameter was selected to replace the previous nail after reaming. Distal fixation was performed using at least two interlocking screws. The success of the procedure was determined by the finding of union on simple radiographs. Possible reasons for failure were analyzed, including the location of nonunion, the type of nonunion, and the number of screws used for distal fixation. Results Of the 30 cases, 27 achieved primary healing with the technique of exchange nailing. The average time to achieve union was 23.1 weeks (range, 13.7–36.9 weeks). The three failures involved nonunion at the isthmic level (three of 15 cases), not at the infraisthmic level (zero of 15 cases). Of eight cases of oligotrophic nonunion, two (25%) failed to heal, and of 22 cases of hypertrophic nonunion, one (4.5%) failed to heal. Of 11 cases involving two screws at the distal fixation, two (18.2%) failed to heal, and of 19 cases involving three or more screws, one (5.3%) failed to heal. None of these findings was statistically significant. Conclusions Exchange nailing may enable successful healing in cases of aseptic nonunion of the femoral shaft. Although nonunion at the isthmic level, oligotrophic nonunion, and weaker distal fixation seemed to be associated with a higher chance of failure, further study is needed to confirm those findings. Keywords: Femoral shaft nonunion; Exchange nailing; Risk factors; Distal interlocking

“Functional Outcome in Exchange Nailing with Autogenous Cancellous Bone Graft for Aseptic Nonunion of Femoral Shaft: A Study in Pabna Medical College Hospital, Pabna, Bangladesh”

“Functional Outcome in Exchange Nailing with Autogenous Cancellous Bone Graft for Aseptic Nonunion of Femoral Shaft: A Study in Pabna Medical College Hospital, Pabna, Bangladesh”

Post-retrieval functionality testing of PRECICE lengthening nails: The “Sleeper” nail concept

IntroductionPRECICE intramedullary magnetic lengthening nails, introduced in 2011, have changed the landscape of long bone limb lengthening. The implants have a stroke ranging from 5 to 8 cm, but it may be desirable to perform part of the lengthening at one treatment, allow bone healing, leave the implant in place, dormant, and then return one or more years later to re-lengthen with the same implant. We call this the “sleeper” nail concept. This strategy may be gentler for the joints and soft tissues. Would the nail mechanism still be functional one or more years later? MethodsWe tested 102 intact, consecutively explanted nails. Using a “fast magnet,” the male part was lengthened to 5 mm short of its maximum stroke capacity and retracted back to 35 mm (all nails start with the male part exposed 30 mm). The nails passed the test if the male part succeeded in lengthening to 5 mm short of the maximum stroke capacity and back to 35 mm (or only retract in case fully deployed at testing). During our testing, the nails were prevented from reaching their full capacity of lengthening/retraction to avoid jamming the gears. Failure was defined as the inability or partial ability to complete the process. ResultsEighty-six nails (84.3%) performed successfully according to our testing standard. When comparing successful and failed nails in terms of nail type, generation, diameter, length and in vivo interval, there was no statistical significance. Comparing both groups in terms of status at testing (fully deployed or not) showed statistical significance with 9 of the 16 failed nails fully deployed at testing (p < 0.001). ConclusionDormant PRECICE nails can be reactivated for further lengthening. The results imply that full deployment may damage the mechanism, making future re-use by retracting and then re-lengthening unsuccessful. The candidate nails for this purpose should not have any signs of clear damage (bending or breakage) and should not have been fully deployed. However, surgeons and patients should be aware of the need for possible nail exchange if the “sleeper” nail fails to wake up. Level of evidenceLevel IV case series analysis of retrieved surgical implants.

REAMED INTRAMEDULLARY EXCHANGE NAILING FOR ASEPTIC NON- UNION OF ISTHMUS &amp; ENHANCED DISTAL FIXATION EXCHANGE NAILING FOR NON- UNION OF DISTAL THIRD SHAFT FEMUR FRACTURES.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of exchange nailing in isthmus and exchange nailing with poller screw fixation &amp; multiplanar interlocking screws for Distal Third shaft femur aseptic non union. The evaluation was addressed by measuring the clinical, functional and radiological outcome of our treatment methods in both non union groups.&#x0D; Design: Retrospective study.&#x0D; Methods: Between 2006 to 2014, 55 patients with Non Union of shaft femur were operated using a standardised protocol at our institute and followed up for functional and radiological outcome.&#x0D; 5 patients were lost to follow up and thus were excluded from this study. Out of 50 patients, 29 were cases of Isthmus Non union and remaining 21 were cases of Distal Third Non union. Our approach in Isthmus group was closed Exchange nailing with 2mm larger nail with medullary reaming. Some needed isthmus when radiological signs of healing were delayed.&#x0D; In Distal Third group, poller screws were used in conjugation with reamed exchange nailing with a 2mm larger diameter nail and interlocking screws in different planes. Out of the 50 patients, 48 were men and 2 women. Their mean post surgical procedure period at presentation of non union was 11.60 months.&#x0D; Results: Out of a total 55, 5 were lost to follow up- all from isthmus group. In isthmus group, healing was observed in 25 out of 29 patients with union achieved in a mean of 7.60 months. Delayed union was seen in 3 patients and addressed with dynamisation of distal screws leading to union in all cases in a mean of 13 months without further intervention.1 patient had superficial infection which resolved with debridement at 4 months. 1 patient required additional bone grafting for persistent non union and healed at 18 months. Non union was encountered in 3 patients who refused further treatment and accepted functional limitations. Harris Hip Score for this group was 87.40. In Distal Third group, all 21 patients achieved union in a mean time of 10.30 months. No patients required further revisions however 4 patients had superficial infection which was treated with antibiotics and debridement. No further complications were encountered in this group of patients and bony union was uneventful otherwise. Harris Hip Score of this group was 92.40.&#x0D; Conclusion: Using exchange nailing for isthmus and poller screw augmentation for Distal Third Shaft Femur Non union yields excellent clinical, functional and radiological outcome. Exchange nailing with or without poller screw augmentation is a less invasive method to treat aseptic non union of shaft femur fractures without additional complications.&#x0D; Keywords: Nonunion, exchange nailing, poller screw, femoral non union, aseptic non union.

Clinical experience of the use of reamer irrigator aspirator in Japanese patients: A report of the first 42 cases

BackgroundA reamer irrigator aspirator (RIA) can be used to harvest substantial amounts of autologous bone and debride the intramedullary canal. Clinical experience using reamer irrigator aspirators in Japan is very limited. The applicability of the reamer irrigator aspirator head with a minimum diameter of 12 mm for Japanese people is often questioned as the Japanese are smaller than Americans and Europeans. There are no reports of complications in Japanese patients. This study aimed to retrospectively review clinical cases and describe reamer irrigator aspirator use in Japanese patients. MethodsAll patients for whom a reamer irrigator aspirator was used during surgery at our hospital between January 2014 and September 2018 were included. The patients’ clinical and radiographic data were retrospectively reviewed. ResultsData of 40 patients (42 cases) were collected. The reamer irrigator aspirator was used for bone graft harvesting in 32 cases, intramedullary debridement and irrigation in 9 cases, and reaming for exchange nailing in 1 case. The diameter of the reamer irrigator aspirator reamer head was 12 mm in 22 cases (53.7%), 12.5 mm in 4 cases (9.8%), 13 mm in 9 cases (22.0%), 13.5 mm in 1 case (2.4%), 14.0 mm in 1 case (2.4%), 14.5 mm in 1 case (2.4%), and 15 mm in 4 cases (9.8%). Mean intraoperative bleeding volume was 1158.6 mL (range, 100–3800 mL). We experienced no difficulty inserting the reamer irrigator aspirator into the intramedullary canals and no cases of insertion-related intraoperative fracture. Five cortical perforations (11.9%) were observed on postoperative computed tomography scans, although no patient was symptomatic. One case (2.4%) of postoperative femur fracture occurred. ConclusionsReamer irrigator aspirators can be used in Japanese patients. Smaller reamer head sizes were mainly used in our experience. We should manage complications as in previous reports from Western countries.

Augmentation plating leaving the nail in situ is an excellent option for treating femoral shaft nonunion after IM nailing: a multicentre study.

In recent years, plate augmentation over a retained intramedullary (IM) nail has been shown to be an effective option for managing femur fracture nonunions because it improves the biomechanical environment of the fracture site without causing additional biological damage. In the current study, we present outcome data from 22 consecutive patients treated with plate augmentation for femoral shaft nonunion leaving the nail in situ. Between 2015 and 2018, 22 consecutive patients with femoral shaft aseptic nonunion after IM nailing were treated with plate augmentation over a retained nail at four different institutions. Nonunion was categorized based on its anatomical location and was classified according to the Weber and Cech classification. Cortical defects greater than 1.0cm, the type of nailing procedure, and the number of previous interventions were recorded. Patients were assessed clinically and radiographically to measure the healing of nonunion sites. The time to fracture union and complications were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used when applicable. One site location was supra-isthmic, 12 were isthmic, and 9 were infra-isthmic. There were 10 cases of vascular nonunion and 12 cases of avascular nonunion. A cortical defect greater than 1.0cm was observed in three patients. Antegrade nailing was performed in 11 patients, and retrograde nailing was performed in 11 patients. Reaming was performed in 12 patients. In eight patients, the fracture was openly reduced during the IM nailing index procedure. The average number of previous interventions before augmentation plating was 1.6 (1-4). Bone union was achieved in 19 patients after augmentation plating with an average follow-up of 23.5months (12-51months). Excellent and good clinical results were observed in all patients. There was no plate or screw breakage, and no patient developed infection. Augmentation plating leaving the nail in situ is an excellent option for treating femoral shaft nonunion after IM nailing, with a high union rate and few complications. We believe the technique should gradually replace exchange nailing as the standard of care for the majority of femoral shaft nonunions that occur after IM nailing.

Suprapatellar nailing of fractures of the tibia.

Intramedullary nailing of tibia fractures via asuprapatellar, transarticular approach with the knee joint in 20-30° of flexion and the use of specific protection tubes to preserve intra-articular structures. Extra-articular fractures of the proximal tibia; simple and comminuted fractures of the tibia diaphysis; segmental diaphyseal fractures of the tibia; extra-articular fractures of the distal tibia and fractures with simple intra-articular distal extension; floating knee injuries. Gustilo grade3C open fractures of the tibia; severe soft tissue laceration, contamination or infection in the suprapatellar area; ipsilateral knee joint prosthesis; knee arthrodesis; implants blocking the nail entry point. Via asuprapatellar, transarticular approach an intramedullary tibia nail is inserted after anatomical reposition of the tibial fracture with the knee joint in 20-30° of flexion. Use of specific protection tubes to preserve intra-articular structures. The proximal and distal locking configuration depends upon the specific fracture characteristics. In all, 61 patients underwent suprapatellar tibia nailing and were under follow-up at least until fracture union. Twelve patients suffered from an open fracture. A total of 17patients had adistal third fracture, 8sustained aproximal third fracture and 36 had ashaft fracture. Follow-up focused on patients with distal fractures; 6/17 patients sustained open fractures. Average time to union was 9weeks. One fracture did not heal and required exchange nailing. Two patients complained about anterior knee pain. Functionally, full range of motion was regained in all patients.

Optimal use of transmedullary support screws and fibular management in distal tibial fracture nailing based on a new biomechanical classification

IntroductionBased on a novel simple frontal view classification, a comprehensive concept for systematic management of intramedullary fixation of distal tibial fractures is introduced. Even the usage of thin (unreamed) nails allows for anatomic reduction and stable fixation if applied in combination with transmedullary support (TMS) screws. Our classification system guides the placement of the TMS screw (medial or lateral) and suggests whether to fix the fibula or not. Patients and methodsThe fixation concept of the classification was applied to 67 distal tibial fracture cases. Patients were followed up until nail removal after at least 12 months. ResultsAll fractures united. Besides 5 cases of slight external malrotation (<5 degrees) no axial malunion was found. Two infections were encountered, but both were treated effectively by exchange nailing, antibiotic therapy until wound healing and C-reactive protein normalization.Final functional assessment according to Olerud/Molander Score was 85 pts (100 pts. possible, range 50–100 pts). DiscussionThe stability we achieved even with single screw interlocking was high due to anatomic reduction with interfragmental compression in the lowest fracture line. In cases of fracture extension into the ankle joint, interfragmental compression screws were applied before nail insertion. In more comminuted fracture types additional screws are advisable. ConclusionsThe frontal view classification has proven to be a reliable guideline for effective intramedullary fracture fixation by minimally invasive means, allowing for optimized soft tissue protection.

Exchange nailing versus augmentative plating in the treatment of femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing: a meta-analysis.

With advances in the treatment of femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing, the optimal option remains controversial. This study aimed to quantitatively investigate outcomes in a comparison of exchange nailing and augmentative plating for femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing.The EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane library and Clinical databases were systematically searched dating from their inception to March 2018. All retrospective controlled and prospective trials evaluating exchange nailing and augmentative plating for the treatment of femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing were identified. Two investigators extracted all related data independently and we used the review manager software to perform the meta-analysis.Three studies with a total of 232 patients were eligible for data extraction in our study. The meta-analysis indicated that the augmentative plating group had a lower nonunion rate, shorter time to union, less intra-operative blood loss, and shorter operative time than the exchange nailing group. While for the infection rate, there was no significant difference between augmentative plating and exchange nailing group.The available evidence has shown that augmentative plating is superior to exchange nailing for femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nailing.Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:513-518. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180054

Intramedullary nailing for adult open tibial shaft fracture. An 85-case series

IntroductionTreatment of open tibial shaft fracture is controversial due to the risk of infection. We assessed results in a continuous series of open tibial shaft fractures treated by primary intramedullary nailing. HypothesisFactors can be determined for non-union and onset of infection following primary intramedullary nailing in open tibial shaft fracture. Patients and methodA retrospective study assessed open tibial shaft fractures treated by primary intramedullary nailing between January 2007 and December 2013. Fractures were classified on the AO and Gustilo classifications. Infection rates and time to union were compared. ResultsEighty-five patients (85 fractures) were included: 13 Gustilo type I, 43 type II, 19 type III-A and 10 type III-B. Eight patients had infection (9%). Healing and union were obtained after nail exchange and reaming in 5 cases, and after bone transport in 2. One patient showed non-union at last follow-up. Infection risk did not correlate with Gustilo (p=0.55) or AO type (p=0.69). The interval between trauma and wound debridement was significantly longer in infected patients (p=0.048). Eighty-three fractures (97.6%) healed, at a mean 6.9±6.1 months (range, 2–40). Non-union was associated with AO type (p=0.04), and showed a non-significant association with Gustilo type (p=0.06). DiscussionTime to treatment was the only factor influencing risk of infection. Non-union was related to AO comminution grade. Primary intramedullary nailing seemed reliable if treatment was early, with rigorous debridement. The advantages then are early resumption of weight-bearing and low patient burden. Level of evidenceV, retrospective study.

Results of Exchange Nailing in Hypertrophic Nonunion of Femoral Shaft Fracture Treated with Nailing

Results of Exchange Nailing in Hypertrophic Nonunion of Femoral Shaft Fracture Treated with Nailing

Result of Internal Fixation of Femoral Shaft Nonunion with Implant Failure by SIGN Interlocking Nail at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital

This prospective study on result of internal fixation of femoral shaft nonunion with implant failure by SIGN interlocking nail was carried out during the period of January 2009 to December 2016at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh. Mean age of the patient was 34 years (11-70 years), majority of the patients were male (76%), injury was due to high energy trauma (88%), right side involvement was more (68%).Closed exchange nailing was done in 28 cases (56%) and open nailing was done in 22 cases (44%). In the open cases previous implants were removed, refreshening of the fracture ends was done. Antegrade or retrograde SIGN interlocking nailing depend on the site involvement. Reaming materials were used as internal bone graft in all the cases. Autogenouscancellous bone graft was given in 5 cases due to comminution at fracture site (2 cases) and severe osteoporosis (3 cases). The final outcome satisfactory result was found in 44 (88%) cases and unsatisfactory result in 6 (12%) cases.TAJ 2017; 30(1): 11-16

Clinical outcomes of femoral shaft non-union: dual plating versus exchange nailing with augmentation plating

BackgroundBy comparing clinical outcomes between dual plating (DP) and exchange nailing with augmentation plating (EN/AP), we aimed to provide better treatment strategies for femoral shaft non-union.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 30 patients with aseptic femoral shaft non-union at our level 1 trauma center between January 2014 and January 2017. All patients underwent a one-stage, definitive revision procedure, including DP for 16 patients and EN/AP for 14 patients. Perioperative surgical trauma, fracture healing, complications, and the time to return to work were evaluated.ResultsTwenty-nine patients achieved fracture healing. In the EN/AP group, the fracture healing rate was 100%, the healing time was 5.7 ± 1.7 months, and the time of return to work was 8.2 ± 2.9 months. In the DP group, the fracture healing rate was 94%, the healing time was 8.4 ± 4.1 months, and the time of return to work was 18.4 ± 10.3 months. In terms of fracture healing and return to work, the patients in the EN/AP group required less time than those in the DP group, and the differences were statistically significant (p = 0.024 and p < 0.01 respectively). Except for the length of the incision, the two groups showed no statistically significant differences in operative time, postoperative deformity, and complications.ConclusionsBoth EN/AP and DP are important surgical options for femoral shaft non-union. Compared to DP, EN/AP resulted in a shorter incision, faster fracture healing, and a shorter time to return to work.Trial registrationChiCTR-ORC-17014062