Intramedullary nailing for treatment of forearm non-union: Is it useful? – A case series

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.