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

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Upper Extremity Fractures

Background:

• Isolated ulna shaft fractures (USFs) are uncommon but significant injuries.
• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is standard for unstable USFs.
• Treatment options for stable USFs vary, prompting comparative studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare outcomes of stable USFs treated with ORIF versus intramedullary nailing (IMN).

Main Methods:

• 23 patients with stable USFs were divided into ORIF (14) and IMN (9) groups.
• Follow-up included clinical (DASH scores) and radiological assessments at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.
• Outcomes measured: time to union, return to activities, physical therapy duration, and complications.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed DASH score improvement by 6 months.
• IMN group had better DASH scores at 1 and 3 months; similar at 6 and 12 months.
• IMN group demonstrated earlier union and return to activities/work, with no observed complications.

Conclusions:

• Surgical treatment of isolated USFs yields excellent functional and radiographic results.
• IMN may be superior to ORIF for stable USFs due to faster recovery and union.
• IMN is associated with a reduced likelihood of complications compared to ORIF.