Reliability of the Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the recently developedRadiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures (RUST) scoring system and clinical outcomes in tibialfractures. Methods: The study included 41 patients with tibia shaft fractures who underwent intramedullary nailing between 2005 and 2010. Mean follow-up period was 26.32 (range: 12 to 48) months. Clinical outcomes were measured using the Karlström-Olerud physical function scale, VAS score and SF-36 physical function and pain scores during follow-up. RUST scores were noted after radiological evaluation. Results: RUST scores accurately reflected healing and union of the bone (p 0.05). RUST scoring also showed significant correlation with widely used physical and pain scoring systems (SF-36, VAS and Karlström-Olerud). Conclusion: The RUST scoring system appears to be a reliable tool for the evaluation of clinical outcomes in management of tibial fracture.