Der Unfallchirurg
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Osteosynthesis of distal tibia fractures relies on stable fixation of the distal fragment. Modern intramedullary implants provide various fixation options for locking screws. These implants expand the indications for intramedullary nailing of tibia fractures towards more distally located fractures. ⋯ The initial stability to provide sufficient load bearing capacity appears to be provided by the available locking options. With at least two screws, preferably in crossed configuration and spaced over the largest available distance of the distal fragment, secure and stable fixation can be achieved. Insertion of the locking screws in a free hand technique typically results in jamming of the locking screw with the nail and with cortical bone, providing inherent angular stability of the construct. Angular stable locking features of the nail itself do not appear to improve mechanical stability or to affect healing of distal tibia fractures.