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[Indication for removal of tibial nails]
T Gösling1, T Hüfner, S Hankemeier
1Unfallchirurgische Klinik, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover. goesling.thomas@mh-hannover.de
Background:
Tibial nail removal has been suggested as a routine procedure for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The aim of this study was to define guidelines for the removal of tibial nails.
Patients And Methods:
A retrospective study on the isolated removal of 69 tibial nails after fracture consolidation was done. A review of the patient charts and radiographs was performed. Forty-four patients (64%) were available for the follow-up interview.
Results:
Preoperatively, 26 patients (59%) had local complaints. Of these 26 patients, 73% reported an improvement, and 8% reported an aggravation of their local complaints. Of the 18 patients who were asymptomatic before surgery, 17% reported long-term complaints at follow-up.
Conclusion:
We conclude that routine removal of tibial nails should be discussed critically in asymptomatic patients.