This trial is conducted in Africa, Europe and Middle East. This trial investigates the efficacy and safety of three dose levels of Norditropin® (growth hormone) as compared to placebo in the treatment of tibia fractures. The trial will be conducted in two parts: in the first part, the patients will be evaluated with regard to efficacy (fracture healing) and safety at short time intervals until week 24 post-surgery. In the second part, long-term safety and fracture healing up to 12 months post-surgery will be evaluated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary surgical treatment of tibia fracture using intramedullary nailing
• Closed fractures: Tscherne Type C1, C2 and C3
• Open fractures: Gustilo Grade I, II and IIIa

Exclusion Criteria:

• Open growth plate on X-rays
• Known chronic endocrine or metabolic disease including diabetes and severe obesity defined as body mass index (BMI)1 > 32.0
• Severe head injury defined as patients who are stuporous or comatose with pupillary enlargement or asymmetry
• Critically ill patients defined as patients in need of mechanical ventilation (except during surgical procedures) or circulatory support (defined as use of inotropic drugs)