Comparison of Efficacy of Suprapatellar and Infrapatellar Approaches for Intramedullary Interlocking Nailing of Tibia in Patients With Tibial Fracture

Introduction: Intramedullary interlocking nailing is a common surgical procedure for tibial fractures, enabling early patient mobilization. Traditionally, the infrapatellar approach has been used for intramedullary interlocking nailing of tibial fractures, but the suprapatellar approach is gaining attention for its potential benefits. This randomized controlled study aimed to compare the duration of the surgery, intra-operative blood loss, and fluoroscopy time between the suprapatellar and infrapatellar approaches.

Methods: We included 38 adult patients with tibial shaft fractures, excluding those with non-union, open fractures, revision surgery, or low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Patients were divided equally into two groups using block randomization: Group A (19 patients) underwent the infrapatellar approach, and Group B (19 patients) underwent the suprapatellar approach. Blood loss was measured using the gravimetric method and by changes in pre-operative and post-operative hemoglobin levels. Surgical duration by calculating the time elapsed between the start and end of the procedure and fluoroscopy time was logged from the fluoroscopy machine.

Results: In group A, blood loss averaged 154±30.98 mL, slightly more than in group B (150±32.92 mL), though the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Group A also showed a higher difference in hemoglobin levels (2.20±1.13 g/dL) compared to group B (1.15±0.93 g/dL), which was statistically significant (p=0.02). Fluoroscopy time and duration of the surgery were slightly longer in group A compared to group B but not statistically significant (p=0.693).

Conclusion: The suprapatellar approach results in less blood loss, potentially promoting faster recovery, reduced need for blood transfusions, and shorter hospital stays. It also entails shorter fluoroscopy time and surgical duration, though not statistically significant, which may reduce radiation exposure for the surgical team.