Intramedullary nailing for the treatment of a fractured tibia has proven its value not only through rigid fixation but also early joint motion and weight bearing which promote more rapid bony union and functional recovery.

Recently reaming intramedullary nailing technique leaves the problems of destroying the endosteal blood supply, which associated with delayed union and postoperative infection.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results and the complications of nonreamed interlocking intramedullary nailing in the treatment of open tibial fractures.

The authors reviewed 20 cases of open fractures of tibial shaft that were treated with nonreamed interlocking intramedullary nailing from May 1993 to July 1994 The follow up period ranged from 12 to 26 months.

The results were summariBed as follows.

1. The average period of radiologic union was obtatined in 21.2 weeks.

2. Complications include 1 case of delayed union and 1 case of postoperative infection in Type III open tibial fracture. Locking screw broke in 1 case of Type I open tibial fracture.

3. According to the criteria of functional results by Klemm and Borner, 18 cases(90%) showed excellent results.