The application of the Maatz-spreading-nail in operative treatment of distal tibial fractures.

The treatment of fractures located in the distal two fifths of the tibia offers some difficulties for anatomic and physiologic reasons. For operative treatment the conical form of the medullary cavity requires a special form of nail. Maatz developed a spreading-nail in 1943, which was applied in 107 cases between 1956 and 1974 by the present authors. Retrospective analysis of 64 cases showed advantages and limitations of this nail. If applied with proper indications very satisfactory results were seen. The operative technique described is simple.