Kirschner wires as blocking screws technique in extra-articular fractures of the distal tibia treated with intramedullary nail

Abstract Background To explore the clinical efficacy and safety of Kirschner wires (KW) as blocking screws technique in extra-articular fractures of the distal tibia treated with intramedullary nail (IMN). Methods 61 patients treated with IMN for extra-articular fractures of the distal tibia assisted with KW as blocking screws technique or Poller screws (PS) technique. The operation time, times of fluoroscopy, number of blocking screws used, blood loss and time to union were compared between the two groups. Also, the functional outcomes of the two groups were compared using range of motion (ROM), visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), and Lysholm scores. Results Compared with the PS group, the operation time of the KW group was significantly shorter, the times of fluoroscopy and the amount of blood loss during the surgery of KW were also significantly reduced (P < 0.05). Regarding the functional outcomes, there were no significant differences in ROM, VAS, AOFAS and Lysholm scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion In the treatment of extra-articular fractures of the distal tibia with nails, KW as blocking screws technique is safe and reliable.