Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Istanbul Tip Fakultesi Dergisi, cilt.88, sa.3, ss.185-189, 2025 (ESCI)
Objective: To compare radiographic union score for tibial (RUST) fractures scores, union status, and functional outcomes of isolated tibial and both tibia and fibula fracture treated with intramedullary nailing. Materials and Methods: The records of 205 patients diagnosed with tibial diaphyseal fractures and treated with intramedullary nailing between January 2015 and December 2020 were reviewed, and 74 patients were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups: isolated tibial fracture (Group 1) and both tibia and fibula fracture (Group 2). The smoking status and presence of open fractures were noted. The RUST was retrospectively evaluated using radiographs at 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th months. The SF-36 physical function score and VAS were evaluated at the last follow-up visit. Results: The mean age of the patients was 41.9 years (18-77). Twenty five patients (stage 1 in 12, stage 2 in 8 and stage 3 in 5) had open fractures. When the RUST scores were evaluated, a statistically higher rate of union was observed in Group 2 than in Group 1 at the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th months. While union was seen in the 6th month radiographs in Group 2, it was seen in the 12th month in Group 1. Smoking and open fractures significantly decreased RUST scores at 6th month. However, there was no difference in RUST scores at the 12th month. In addition, there was no significant difference in the SF-36 physical function score or VAS between the two groups at the last follow-up. Conclusion: Although radiological union is slower in isolated tibial fractures than in both tibia and fibula fractures, union can be achieved in both groups at the 12th month. A similar phenomenon was observed in smokers and open fractures. Especially in isolated tibial fractures, smokers and patients with open fractures; it is advisable to wait for this period before performing additional procedures.