Background
Despite the improved rate of union reported in tibial shaft fractures, there continues to be a
small number of patients with delayed union and nonunion who present a dilemma to the
surgeons. Because the spectrum of injuries to the tibia is so great, many methods of treatment
are available to treat tibial nonunions.
Aim
The aim of the study was to evaluate partial fibulectomy as an easy, simple, and effective
treatment option in the treatment of certain types of tibial nonunions.
Patients and methods
This prospective study included 20 patients with established tibial nonunion. All patients were
evaluated clinically in laboratory and radiologically before surgery and followed up until after
complete union of the tibial fractures.
Results
All fractures were united at an average duration of 15 weeks (range 10–19 weeks) after partial
fibulectomy, with acceptable alignment in the coronal and sagittal planes. There were no
neurovascular complications, no limitation of joint motion, and no problems at the fibulectomy site.
Conclusion
The results were very satisfactory and were significantly in favor of using this easy, simple
procedure in the treatment of certain patients of tibial nonunions. |
