Functional Outcome of Radius Ulna Fracture Treated With Nailing in Adults

Abstract

Background: Intramedullary nailing (IMN) of radius and ulna has its own advantages and disadvantages. The chances of infection are significantly decreased, as it is usually a closed procedure and has less periosteal stripping. This study was undertaken to evaluate the results of radius ulna nailing and its radiological and functional outcomes using this method.
Methods: This study of forearm bones fracture treated by IMN was performed on 30 patients prospectively admitted at SVP Hospital Ahmedabad, India, from 2020 to 2022. Clinically, fracture was united when the patient was completely pain free. Patients were followed up at monthly intervals till union and were assessed clinically and radiographically, and details were recorded.
Results: The evaluation of the result was done using Anderson et al. criteria. 28 (93.33%) patients had good to excellent results. Twenty-nine (96.66%) patients had good radiological union. Of these, one patient had union at 22 weeks and one had union at 36 weeks. Twenty-one (70%) patients had union within 4 months.
Conclusion: Use of IMN has resulted in, and continues to result in, predictable and good outcomes. Complication rates are lower compared to plate osteosynthesis, although application of above-elbow (AE) slab is a downside of the procedure. The IMN has a future in repair of forearm fractures considering its low complication rates, low cost, and good results.