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Research Paper | Orthopedic | Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026 | Pages: 1090 - 1093 | India
Functional Outcome in Patients with Distal Tibia Fractures Treated with Intramedullary Nailing Vs. Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO)
Abstract: Background: Distal tibial fractures are complex injuries due to their subcutaneous location, limited soft tissue coverage, and risk of malalignment. Surgical management aims to achieve stable fixation, restore alignment, and promote early functional recovery. Intramedullary nailing (IMN) and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) are widely utilized techniques, yet the optimal modality remains debated. Aim: To compare functional and radiological outcomes in patients with distal tibial fractures treated with IMN versus MIPO. Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted over one year and included 50 patients with distal tibial fractures. Patients were allocated into two groups: IMN (n=25) and MIPO (n=25). Clinical evaluation, operative parameters, radiological union, and functional outcomes were assessed. Functional outcome was measured using the AOFAS ankle?hindfoot score at 6 months. Statistical comparison was performed between the groups. Results: IMN demonstrated lower operative time, reduced blood loss, and shorter hospital stay compared to MIPO. Radiological union rates were comparable, although minor malalignment was more frequent in the IMN group. Functional outcomes favored IMN, with significantly higher AOFAS scores and earlier return to full weight-bearing. Conclusion: Both IMN and MIPO provided satisfactory outcomes for distal tibial fractures. IMN offered superior early functional recovery, whereas MIPO achieved better alignment control. Treatment selection should be individualized based on fracture characteristics and soft tissue condition.
Keywords: distal tibia fracture, intramedullary nailing, minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis
How to Cite?: Dr Avneet Kumar Ashyan, Dr. K. N. Ghorpade, Dr. Ashish Somani, Dr. Nitin Ghule, "Functional Outcome in Patients with Distal Tibia Fractures Treated with Intramedullary Nailing Vs. Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO)", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1090-1093, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26113170953, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26113170953