Prophylactic Antibiotic Coated Nail to Prevent Infection: A Clinical Trial

This study is testing whether an antibiotic-coated intramedullary nail (a metal rod inserted into the bone) can reduce the risk of serious bone infections in people with severe open leg fractures. Open tibia fractures — where the bone breaks through the skin — carry a high risk of infection, and coating the nail with antibiotics may help prevent this. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You have a severe open tibia (shin bone) fracture that requires surgery with an intramedullary nail for fixation - Your fracture is classified as Gustilo Type II or III (moderate to severe open fracture) **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You are under 18 - You are allergic to vancomycin or gentamicin (the antibiotics on the nail) - You do not speak English or Spanish - You are pregnant or breastfeeding - You have a pre-existing bone infection at the fracture site Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.