CHAPTER XV - FRACTURES OF THE SHAFT OF THE TIBIA

Summary

The bad results of open reduction and internal fixation of fractures are most commonly seen in fractures of the shaft of the tibia. There are several reasons for this: the tibia is the commonest major long bone to be fractured; it is very commonly a compound fracture; it is a fracture which is easily exposed and therefore tempts inexperienced operators; it is a subcutaneous fracture and after plating is especially prone to defective wound healing accompanied by what in some quarters is euphemistically termed ‘drainage’

We have still a long way to go before the best method of treating a fracture of the shaft of the tibia can be stated with finality. I feel sure that a closed method will eventually prevail, but we need mechanical aids to improve our control of the bone fragments. It is possible time will show that an intramedullary rod, introduced through the tibial tubercle, without exposing the fracture site, will be enough to enhance alignment as an adjuvant to closed methods. Used in this simple way the intramedullary rod will not be responsible for immobilisation; it will merely control alignment and prevent slipping of the reduced fracture.

Most surgeons who practise internal fixation of tibial fractures do so with the idea that accurate coaptation of the fragments, combined with rigid fixation, enhances the ability of the fracture to unite. I have attempted to show in Chapter I that this mechanical approach to fracture healing is out of touch with biological reality.