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Tibia Fracture Fixation in India

Surgical repair of broken shin bone using plates, screws, or intramedullary nails to restore alignment and stability.

Overview

Tibia fracture fixation is a critical surgical procedure performed to repair fractures of the tibia (shin bone), the larger of the two bones in the lower leg. Tibia fractures are among the most common long bone fractures and can result from high-energy trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from height, or sports injuries. The tibia is particularly vulnerable because it lies just beneath the skin with minimal soft tissue protection. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar, a highly experienced trauma surgeon at Arthoscenter in Patna, Bihar, has successfully treated over 350 tibia fractures with a 96% union rate. His expertise spans various fixation techniques including intramedullary nailing, plate fixation, and external fixation, allowing him to tailor the treatment approach to each patient's specific fracture pattern, soft tissue condition, and overall health status. The surgical approach depends on the fracture type, location, and severity. Simple, stable fractures may be treated with intramedullary nails inserted through a small incision, while complex fractures with soft tissue damage may require plate and screw fixation or temporary external fixation. Modern fixation techniques promote early weight bearing and faster return to normal activities while minimizing complications.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Severe pain in the shin area immediately after injury

Visible deformity or abnormal angulation of the lower leg

Inability to bear weight or walk on the affected leg

Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the fracture site

Bone protruding through the skin (open fracture) in severe cases

Numbness or tingling in the foot (nerve involvement)

Limited range of motion in the ankle or knee

Crepitus (grinding sensation) when moving the leg

Procedure Details

Duration

1.5-3 hours depending on fracture complexity

Anesthesia

General anesthesia or spinal anesthesia with sedation

Preparation for Surgery

Pre-operative assessment includes X-rays, CT scans if needed to evaluate fracture complexity, blood tests, and medical clearance. Open fractures require emergency treatment with antibiotics and tetanus prophylaxis. Patients are kept NPO (nothing by mouth) before surgery.

Surgical Steps

1

General or spinal anesthesia is administered

2

The leg is positioned and sterilized, and a tourniquet may be applied

3

For intramedullary nailing: A small incision is made near the knee, and a guide wire is inserted through the bone marrow canal

4

For plate fixation: An incision is made over the fracture site to expose the bone

5

Fracture fragments are carefully reduced (realigned) to restore normal anatomy

6

Intramedullary nail is inserted and secured with locking screws, OR plate is positioned and secured with multiple screws

7

For open fractures: Thorough irrigation and debridement of contaminated tissue

8

Fluoroscopy (live X-ray) confirms proper alignment and hardware position

9

Incisions are closed in layers and sterile dressings are applied

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Day 1-3

Recovery

Hospital stay for pain management, wound care, and initial physical therapy

Week 1-6

Recovery

Non-weight bearing or partial weight bearing with crutches, gentle ankle exercises

Week 6-12

Recovery

Progressive weight bearing, X-rays to assess healing, increased physical therapy

Month 3-6

Recovery

Full weight bearing, strengthening exercises, gradual return to normal activities

Month 6-12

Recovery

Complete bone healing, potential hardware removal if symptomatic, return to sports

Tips for Faster Recovery

Follow weight bearing restrictions strictly to allow proper bone healing

Elevate the leg above heart level frequently to reduce swelling

Perform ankle pumps and toe exercises to prevent blood clots and maintain circulation

Keep surgical wounds clean and dry, watch for signs of infection

Use assistive devices (crutches, walker) as prescribed by your surgeon

Attend all follow-up appointments for X-rays and clinical assessment

Take calcium and vitamin D supplements to support bone healing

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol as they impair bone healing

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.How long does it take for a tibia fracture to heal?

Most tibia fractures heal in 4-6 months with proper fixation and care. Complex or open fractures may take longer, up to 9-12 months for complete healing and return to full activities.

Q2.Will I need hardware removal surgery?

Hardware removal is not always necessary. However, if the implants cause discomfort, limit function, or if requested by the patient after complete healing, removal can be performed as an elective procedure.

Q3.What is the difference between intramedullary nailing and plate fixation?

Intramedullary nailing involves inserting a rod through the bone marrow canal with smaller incisions, while plate fixation uses a metal plate and screws on the bone surface. Dr. Kumar selects the method based on fracture type and location.

Q4.Can I walk immediately after surgery?

Weight bearing depends on fracture stability and fixation method. Some stable fractures allow early weight bearing, while others require 6-8 weeks of non-weight bearing with crutches. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines.

Q5.What are the risks of tibia fracture surgery?

Risks include infection (especially with open fractures), non-union (failure to heal), malunion (healing in wrong position), nerve or blood vessel injury, compartment syndrome, and hardware complications. Dr. Kumar uses meticulous techniques to minimize these risks.

Q6.Will I have a permanent limp after healing?

With proper surgical alignment and rehabilitation, most patients regain normal gait without limping. Early physical therapy and adherence to weight bearing protocols are crucial for optimal recovery.

Q7.What is an open fracture and how is it treated differently?

An open fracture occurs when bone breaks through the skin, creating infection risk. It requires emergency treatment with antibiotics, tetanus shot, thorough wound cleaning, and often staged surgical procedures to manage soft tissue damage.

Q8.When can I return to sports or heavy work?

Return to high-impact activities typically requires 6-9 months after complete bone healing is confirmed by X-rays. Contact sports may need 9-12 months. Dr. Kumar will assess your individual progress and clear you for activities.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered