Treatment of Type II, IIIA, and IIIB Open Fractures of the Tibial Shaft: A Prospective Comparison of Unreamed Interlocking Intramedullary Nails and Half-Pin External Fixators

Abstract

Results suggest that unreamed interlocking intramedullary nails are more efficacious than half-pin external fixators, in particular with regard to maintenance of limb alignment. However, the severity of soft tissue injury rather than the choice of implant appears to be the predominant factor influencing rapidity of bone healing and rate of injury site infection.