Comparative analysis of bone fixation in patients with uncomplicated multiple fractures and fracture-dislocations of the forearm

Introduction The functional anatomy of the forearm sets up requirements for the choice of fixation constructs and medical technologies of osteosynthesis to be used for particular localization and pattern of injury. Objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of intramedullary nailing, plating, external fixation and combined techniques used to repair forearm shaft fractures of different severity based on comparative analysis of outcomes. Material and methods Outcomes of 153 patients with forearm shaft fractures treated with IM nailing, plating, external fixation (controls, n = 78; 51.0 %) and combined osteosynthesis with shape memory devices (index group, n = 75; 49.0 %) were comparatively analyzed using criteria offered by Anderson L.D. (consolidation time) and Grace T.G., Eversman W.W. (functional results) and statistical methods. Patients sustained either an isolated fracture of one bone (n = 62; 40.5 %) or combined both bones forearm injuries (n = 44; 28.8 %). A subgroup of complicated injuries included 25 (16...