The Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Intramedullary Nailing for Traumatic Fractures of the Femur and Tibia: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine Research DOI: 10.32629/jcmr.v6i4.4801

Weiqiang Cheng, He Li, Dingguo Zhu

Guangzhou Heping orthopedic hospital, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong, China

Abstract

Intramedullary nailing is the standard for stabilizing femoral and tibial diaphyseal fractures. This study evaluated its effectiveness and safety in adults with traumatic long-bone injuries. Methods: Retrospective cohort of adult inpatients treated at a single center (January 2021–July 2024). Demographics, fracture features, intraoperative variables, and outcomes were extracted from electronic records. Primary endpoints were 6-month radiographic union and overall postoperative complications. Secondary endpoints included time to union, time to full weight-bearing, 12-month Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), and specific complications. Results: A total of 100 patients (65 males and 35 females) with 155 fractures (85 femoral and 70 tibial) were analyzed. Union at 6 months was achieved in 145/155 fractures (93.5%); mean time to union was 16.8±4.5 weeks. Overall complications occurred in 25/155 fractures (16.1%), most commonly delayed union (5.2%), superficial infection (3.9%), and malunion (3.2%); deep infection occurred in 1.9%. The mean 12-month LEFS was 70.5±9.8. Conclusion: Intramedullary nailing yields high union rates, acceptable complication profiles, and good functional recovery in femoral and tibial shaft fractures, supporting its continued use as standard care.

Keywords

intramedullary nailing, long bone fracture, femur fracture, tibia fracture, clinical outcome, fracture healing

References

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Copyright © 2026 Weiqiang Cheng, He Li, Dingguo Zhu

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