Intramedullary nailing for treatment of forearm non-union: is it useful? – a case series.

Abstract Introduction Intramedullary osteosynthesis is often considered a second-order method for treatment of forearm non-union. Methods We evaluated clinical and functional results from 49 patients affected by radio and/or ulna non-union treated using intramedullary nailing, with possible tricortical autologous bone grafting. Healing rate (primary outcome), healing time and functional status have been assessed . Results Healing was observed in 46 cases (93.9%), the average healing time was 6.3 (SD ±2.5) months. Excellent result (Anderson score) was reached in 38 cases (77.6%), satisfactory in 7 cases (14.3%). Conclusions Forearm non-unions represent a therapeutic challenge. Intramedullary nailing is a successful option of treatment.