Interlocking intramedullary ulna nails in isolated ulna diaphyseal fractures: a retrospective study

Abstract

The new IM ulna nails may be considered an alternative method for isolated diaphyseal fractures of the ulna. Advantages of this method include its short operative time, insertion by closed and minimal invasive techniques, use of scope only in reduction and locking control, as well as minimal cosmetic defect, small operative scar and early mobilization without additional fixation.

Treatment of adult isolated ulnar diaphyseal fractures: A comparison of new-generation locked intramedullary nail and plate fixation

“…Since rotational stability cannot be obtained in forearm fractures treated with Kirschner-wire, Steinman pins and rush rods, the union rates are low; however, after locked IMNs were used in forearm fractures, higher union rates were obtained gradually. In a study of Saka et al, [13] isolated ulnar fractures were treated with new generation locked IMNs, with mean union time of 13 weeks (range 10-14 weeks) and no patient having nonunion. [13] Preoperative planning is important because if a thick nail is used, iatrogenic fracture may occur, while if a thin nail is used, instability may occur.…”

“…In a study of Saka et al, [13] isolated ulnar fractures were treated with new generation locked IMNs, with mean union time of 13 weeks (range 10-14 weeks) and no patient having nonunion. [13] Preoperative planning is important because if a thick nail is used, iatrogenic fracture may occur, while if a thin nail is used, instability may occur.…”

“…[11] Intramedullary nails (IMNs) are a good alternative to plate fixation, offering less disruption to the blood supply due to reduced periosteal dissection, smaller scars, and lower refracture rates after the removal of the implant, [12] while new generation locked IMNs exhibit high union rates. [13,14] In this study, we aimed to compare the radiological and functional results of adult patients with isolated ulnar diaphyseal fractures treated with plate and new-generation locked IMN.…”

Locked Intramedullary Nailing versus Compression Plating for Stable Ulna Fractures: A Comparative Study

“…Stable ulna shaft fractures can be treated nonoperatively with a mean time to union, when achieved, of approximately 18 weeks [ 5 ]. However, concerns are highlighted in the literature that nonoperatively managed fractures may result in unacceptably high rates of nonunion, ranging from 2–11% [ 11 , 12 , 13 ]. This, combined with worries about malunion, elbow and wrist stiffness, as well as heterotopic ossification of the IOM and compartment syndrome, have led to an increasing prevalence of surgical intervention in such cases.…”

Does operative fixation of isolated fractures of ulna shaft results in different outcomes than non-operative management by long arm cast?

“…5 Both the operative and non-operative methods of management have shown good to excellent results. [4][5][6][13][14][15][16][17] One of the advantages of operative treatment over the non-operative treatment is the early restoration of function and range of motion of elbow and wrist in published studies. 4,5,10,11 Patients in ORIF group in our study did marginally better than the cast group for the range of motion of elbow, but the difference did not reach statistical significance.…”