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Introduction: Despite recent advances, management of distal tibial fractures is challenging, with high rate of complications. Fibula pro tibia plating technique fixes fibula and tibia together, via laterally placed fibular plate without disturbing the tibial soft tissue sleeve. We contemplated this pilot study to assess effectiveness of fibula pro tibia plating in management of distal tibia fibula fractures. Materials and methods: A total of 30 patients with distal tibia fibula fractures with fracture line extending within 5cm from tibial plafond were managed with fibula pro tibia plating, with or without minimal articular fixation. Outcome evaluation was done by union, union time, alignment and functional outcome as assessed by AOFAS score. Results: Mean age in the series was 39.4 years with male to female ratio of 3:2. Mean duration of surgery, blood loss and C arm exposure were 79 minutes (range 52 to 98min), 80ml (range 62 to 102ml) and 48 shoots (range 36 to 81 shoots), respectively. All fractures united in mean union time of 10.2 weeks (range 9 to 14 weeks) with acceptable alignment in all the patients except one. Mean AOFAS score was 86.3 (range 70 to 93) with 29 patients having good to excellent outcome. One patient had varus malunion and in one case infection was seen. Conclusion: Fibula pro tibia plating can be successfully used to manage complex distal tibia fractures which leaves the soft tissue and periosteal sleeve undisturbed, thus avoiding wound related problems and leading to early union.

Introduction: Minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis (MIPO) plating techniques have demonstrated good outcomes in the treatment of distal tibia fractures. Early arthritis and functional impairment may occur if length and rotation are not restored. This study aims to determine the incidence and severity of tibia malrotation following MIPO plating of isolated unilateral distal tibia fractures, defined as torsional difference of greater than 10° as compared to the contralateral limb and whether the degree of malrotation affects functional outcomes scores. Materials and methods: This was a level 2 prospective cohort study. All patients with fractures of the distal tibia who underwent surgical fixation with the exclusion of patients with polytrauma, neurovascular injuries or pre-existing disabilities were recruited. Patients underwent MIPO plating followed by a post-operative Computed Tomography (CT) scan of bilateral lower limbs. AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was recorded at six months and one year follow-up. Results: A total of 24 patients (28 to 83 years old) were recruited. Nineteen patients obtained CT scans. Nine of the 19 patients (47.3%) had tibia malrotation. The mean tibia malrotation angle was 10.3° (0° - 45°). The average AOFAS scores was 82.4 and 84.3 at 6 months and 1 year follow-up. Degree of CT malrotation was not significantly associated with AOFAS scores at 6 month (spearman rho -0.386) and 1 year (spearman rho -0.343). Conclusions: Tibia malrotation following MIPO plating of distal tibia fractures is common, with an incidence of 47.3% and an average malrotation angle of 10.3°. The degree of malrotation does not appear to have significant mid-term functional impact on the patient.

The purpose of this study was to determine the ratio of sagittal length to coronal length of the distal tibia for predicting the sagittal length of the distal tibia. A total of 202 ankles were measured based on CT imaging availability. We measured the coronal length (Width, W) parallel to the Chaput tubercle from CT scans. Sagittal length was divided into 3 points (Diameter D1, D2, D3) in the axial plane on the same level. The relationship between coronal length and each sagittal length was determined through correlation analysis. A prediction model was then developed using multiple regression. We also analyzed the quality of the prediction model and validated the prediction model with a validation cohort. Each sagittal length (D1, D2, D3) and coronal length had a significant positive correlation (p <.01). In the prediction model, sex, height, and W were significantly associated with D1, D2, and D3 (p <.05). Prediction models were made for each sagittal length (D1, D2, D3). Concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) values of prediction models for D1, D2, and D3 were 0.78, 0.72, and 0.72 for the derivation cohort and 0.69, 0.63, and 0.61 for the validation cohort, respectively. Accuracies of models as ± 2SD for D1, D2, and D3 were 93.9%, 94.9%, and 94.9%, respectively. This study predicted the sagittal length of the distal tibia for preoperative planning by measuring the coronal length of the distal tibia. Prediction of the sagittal length of the distal tibia can help foot and ankle surgeons fixate screws stably to prevent iatrogenic injury of posterior structures of the distal tibia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically explore the effects of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) versus intramedullary nail (IMN) on wound infection and wound healing in patients with distal tibia fractures. A computerised search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang, China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM) and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases was performed, from their inception to October 2023, to identify relevant studies on the application of MIPO and IMN in patients with distal tibial fractures. The quality of the included literature was evaluated by two researchers based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and basic information of the literature was collected, with wound infection, postoperative complications and wound healing time as the main indicators for analysis. Stata 17.0 software was applied for analysis. Overall, 23 papers and 2099 patients were included, including 1026 patients in the MIPO group and 1073 patients in the IMN group. The results revealed, when compared with IMN treatment, patients with distal tibia fractures who underwent MIPO treatment had a lower incidence of postoperative complications (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.25–0.42, p < 0.001) and a shorter wound healing time (SMD = −1.00, 95% CI: −1.51 to −0.49, p < 0.001), but the incidence of postoperative wound infection was higher (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.35–3.01, p = 0.001). Both MIPO and IMN are excellent treatments for distal tibia fractures. MIPO is effective in reducing the incidence of complications as well as shortening the time of wound healing time but increases the risk of wound infection. In clinical practice, surgeons can make individual choices based on the patient's wishes and proficiency in both techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A biomechanical comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the retrograde tibial nailing (RTN) and distal tibia plate techniques for the treatment of distal tibia fractures.Methods: Fourteen fresh adult tibia specimens were selected, consisting of seven males and seven females aged 34–55 years. The specimens were randomly divided into two groups (Group A and Group B) using a numerical table method, with seven specimens in each group. Group A underwent internal fixation of distal tibial fractures using RTN, while Group B received internal fixation using a plate. The axial compression properties of the specimens were tested in the neutral positions under pressures of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 N. Additionally, the torsional resistance of the two groups was assessed by subjecting the specimens to torques of 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 N m.Results: At pressures of 400 and 500 N, the axial compression displacement in Group A (1.11 ± 0.06, 1.24 ± 0.05) mm was significantly smaller than that in Group B (1.21 ± 0.08, 1.37 ± 0.11) mm (p = 0.023, 0.019). Moreover, at a pressure of 500 N, the axial compression stiffness in Group A (389.24 ± 17.79) N/mm was significantly higher than that of the control group (362.37 ± 14.44) N/mm (p = 0.010). When subjected to torques of 4 and 5 N m, the torsion angle in Group A (2.97° ± 0.23°, 3.41° ± 0.17°) was significantly smaller compared to Group B (3.31° ± 0.28°, 3.76° ± 0.20°) (p = 0.035, 0.004). Furthermore, at a torque of 5 N m, the torsional stiffness in Group A (1.48 ± 0.07) N m/° was significantly higher than that in Group B (1.36 ± 0.06) N·m/° (p = 0.003).Conclusion: The results obtained from the study demonstrate that the biomechanical performance of RTN outperforms that of the distal tibial plate, providing valuable biomechanical data to support the clinical implementation of RTN.

Introduction: Distal tibial fractures make up approximately 3% to 10% of all tibial fractures or about 1% of lower extremity fractures. MIPO is an appropriate procedure and method to achieve stable metal plate fixation and osseointegration by minimizing soft tissue damage and vascular integrity at the fracture site. MIPO to the medial tibia during distal tibial fractures induces skin irritation due to the thickness of the metal plate, which causes discomfort and pain on the medial side of the distal leg, and if severe, complications such as infection and skin defect may occur. The reverse sural flap is a well-researched approach for covering defects in the lower third of the leg, ankle, and foot. Materials and Methods: Among 151 patients with distal tibia fractures who underwent minimally invasive metal plate fixation, soft tissue was injured due to postoperative complications. We treated 13 cases with necrosis and exposed metal plates by retrograde nasogastric artery flap surgery. For these patients, we collected obligatory patient records, radiological data, and wound photographs of the treatment results and complications of reconstructive surgery. Results: In all the cases, flap survival was confirmed at the final outpatient follow-up. The exposed area of the metal plate was well coated, and there was no plate failure due to complete necrosis. Three out of four women complained of aesthetic dissatisfaction because the volume of the tunnel through which the skin mirror passed and the skin plate itself were thick. In two cases, defatting was performed to reduce the thickness of the plate while removing the metal plate. Conclusions: Metal plate exposure after distal tibial fractures have been treated with minimally invasive metal plate fusion and can be successfully treated with retrograde nasogastric artery flaps, and several surgical techniques are used during flap surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The management of distal third tibial fractures remain controversial. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether concurrent fibular fixation changes union rates and aids in alignment in the case of distal third tibia fractures. Material and Method The study included 106 distal third tibia fracture operation cases in which the distance from the fracture to the plafond was between 3-12 cm at a single centre between January 2016 and June 2020. The patients were divided into three groups according to the status of the fibula: Group 1 (without fibular fixation with the presence of a fibula fracture, 47 cases), Group 2 (concurrent fibular fixation with the presence of a fibular fracture, 38 cases) and Group 3 (intact fibula, 21 cases). All fibular fixation surgeries were performed with locked plates (LCP) and tibial fixation with either LCP or intramedullary nailing (IMN). The primary outcome measures were union and alignment. Age, gender, AO classification, fibula fracture location, presence of an open fracture, implant type and time delay for surgery were also assessed. Results None of the variables except the presence of an open fracture was significant for the union rates or alignment. The union rate was significantly less if there was an open fracture in the concurrent fibular fixation group (p<0.001). Closed fractures were associated with better union rates according to the logistic regression analysis (OR=5,00 (%95 CI 2,24-11,48). Conclusion The present study suggests that a concurrent fibular fixation in the case of distal third tibia fractures improves neither the union rates nor the alignment. Therefore, we conclude that a fibular fixation is not a necessity in achieving better results and should not be performed in case of an open fracture considering the lesser union rate and the burden involved with an additional surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This review was conducted to compare the efficacy of suprapatellar (SP) and infrapatellar (IP) approaches for treating distal tibial fractures with intramedullary nailing. Method This systematic review included studies comparing the outcomes of patients receiving nailing for distal tibial fractures using the SP and IP approaches. We searched the Cochrane CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase databases for relevant studies till 18th Sep. 2022. We used the Newcastle Ottawa Scale to assess study quality and a random-effects meta-analysis to synthesize the outcomes. We used the mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with the 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous data and the odds ratio (OR) with the 95% CI for dichotomous data. Results Four studies with 586 patients (302 in the SP group and 284 in the IP group) were included in this systematic review. The SP group may have had little or no difference in pain and slightly better knee function (MD 3.90 points, 95% CI 0.83 to 5.36) and better ankle function (MD: 8.25 points, 95% CI 3.35 to 13.15) than the IP group 12 months after surgery. Furthermore, compared to the IP group, the SP group had a lower risk of malalignment (OR: 0.22, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.75; number needed to treat (NNT): 6), a lower risk for open reduction (OR: 0.58, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.97; NNT: 16) and a shorter surgical time (MD: − 15.14 min, 95% CI − 21.28 to − 9.00). Conclusions With more advantages, the suprapatellar approach may be the preferred nailing technique over the infrapatellar approach when treating distal tibial fractures. Level of evidence: Level III, systematic review of non-randomized studies.

Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the functional outcome of patients with extra-articular distal one-third tibia fracture, treated with intramedullary interlocking nailing (IMILN) with those treated by minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO). Settings and Design: This is a prospective study and nonprobability sampling technique. Subjects and Methods: In this study, 60 patients with distal third tibia fractures of AO classification Type 43 A1, A2, and A3 were selected, in which 30 of them were treated with IMILN and the remaining 30 were managed with MIPPO. The patients were regularly followed up, and functional outcome was measured at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks using a modified Klemm and Borner scoring system. Statistical Analysis Used: The data collected were subjected to data entry in MS Excel. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 using Chi-square test. Results: In our prospective study, the functional outcome of MIPPO has shown excellent outcome in 13 patients (43.3%) and good outcome in 13 patients (43.3%), fair outcome in three patients (10%), and only one patient had poor outcome (3.3%). However, in the IMILN group, excellent outcome was seen in 7 patients (23.3%) and good outcome in 15 patients (50%), fair in five patients (16.7%), and poor outcome in 3 patients (10%). Alignment of fracture was anatomical in 13 patients of MIPPO and 7 patients of IMILN. Complications such as nonunion and malunion were more in the IMILN group than MIPPO, whereas superficial wound infection and delayed union were comparable in both. Conclusions: Distal tibial fractures can be effectively treated by both intramedullary nailing and MIPPO with minimal soft tissue injury providing good-to-excellent results, whereas in our present study, we observed that MIPPO had excellent functional outcome when compared to IMILN. Although interlocking intramedullary nailing allows early weight-bearing in patients, malunion and nonunion were more frequently seen, which affects the functional outcome. Therefore, we recommend that MIPPO is considered a very effective modality of treatment in distal third tibia fractures.

Background: This review was conducted to compare the efficacy of suprapatellar (SP) and infrapatellar (IP) approaches for treating distal tibial fractures with intramedullary nailing. Method: This systematic review included studies comparing the outcomes of patients receiving nailing for distal tibial fractures using the SP and IP approaches. We searched the Cochrane CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase databases for relevant studies till 18th Sep. 2022. We used the Newcastle Ottawa Scale to assess study quality and a random-effects meta-analysis to synthesize the outcomes. We used the mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with the 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous data and the odds ratio (OR) with the 95% CI for dichotomous data. Results: Four studies with 586 patients (302 in the SP group and 284 in the IP group) were included in this systematic review. The SP group may have had little or no difference in pain and slightly better knee function (MD 3.90 points, 95% CI 0.83 to 5.36) and better ankle function (MD: 8.25 points, 95% CI 3.35 to 13.15) than the IP group 12 months after surgery. Furthermore, compared to the IP group, the SP group had a lower risk of malalignment (OR: 0.22, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.75; number needed to treat (NNT): 6), a lower risk for open reduction (OR: 0.58, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.97; NNT: 16) and a shorter surgical time (MD: − 15.14 min, 95% CI − 21.28 to − 9.00). Conclusions: With more advantages, the suprapatellar approach may be the preferred nailing technique over the infrapatellar approach when treating distal tibial fractures. Level of evidence: Level III, systematic review of non-randomized studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orthoplastic treatment of post-traumatic bone infections is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach using both orthopedic and plastic surgery principles. Its primary goal is to achieve rapid control of the infection through aggressive debridement of the affected tissue, in order to perform a complete reconstruction of the limb. This allows both its salvage and restoration of function. We present a patient with septic non-union secondary to distal tibia fracture with a bone defect of 7 cm and severe soft tissue injury. The treatment was divided into three stages. First, the infection was controlled by radical debridement, limb shortening, and temporary stabilization. Second, early reconstruction was initiated utilizing the first stage of the Masquelet's induced membrane technique (MIMT), and soft tissue coverage with free flap. Third, MIMT was finalized, and bone lengthening with PRECICE nail was performed. We consider this approach effective as it can offer early recovery with optimal functional and aesthetic results in bone defects associated with coverage defects.

Introduction: Distal tibial fractures make up approximately 3% to 10% of all tibial fractures or about 1% of lower extremity fractures. MIPO is an appropriate procedure and method to achieve stable metal plate fixation and osseointegration by minimizing soft tissue damage and vascular integrity at the fracture site. MIPO to the medial tibia during distal tibial fractures induces skin irritation due to the thickness of the metal plate, which causes discomfort and pain on the medial side of the distal leg, and if severe, complications such as infection and skin defect may occur. The reverse sural flap is a well-researched approach for covering defects in the lower third of the leg, ankle, and foot. Materials and Methods: Among 151 patients with distal tibia fractures who underwent minimally invasive metal plate fixation, soft tissue was injured due to postoperative complications. We treated 13 cases with necrosis and exposed metal plates by retrograde nasogastric artery flap surgery. For these patients, we collected obligatory patient records, radiological data, and wound photographs of the treatment results and complications of reconstructive surgery. Results: In all the cases, flap survival was confirmed at the final outpatient follow-up. The exposed area of the metal plate was well coated, and there was no plate failure due to complete necrosis. Three out of four women complained of aesthetic dissatisfaction because the volume of the tunnel through which the skin mirror passed and the skin plate itself were thick. In two cases, defatting was performed to reduce the thickness of the plate while removing the metal plate. Conclusions: Metal plate exposure after distal tibial fractures have been treated with minimally invasive metal plate fusion and can be successfully treated with retrograde nasogastric artery flaps, and several surgical techniques are used during flap surgery.

Purpose: There is currently no consensus regarding the need for fixation of concomitant fibula fractures in patients with surgically treated distal tibia fracture. Although studies have shown it to be beneficial for fractures involving the syndesmosis, it remains unclear for suprasyndesmotic fractures. This study evaluates what effect the fixation of such suprasyndesmotic fibula fractures had on patients who underwent fixation of distal tibia fractures. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included all consecutive adult patients who received surgical treatment for an extra-articular or simple intraarticular distal tibia fracture between 2012 and 2020 and had a concomitant fibula fracture proximal to the syndesmosis. Two groups were formed depending on whether the fibula was stabilized. The need for revision surgery, the occurrence of complications, fracture healing, rotational and angular malalignment were evaluated for both groups. Results: This study included 120 patients, of which 40 (33.3%) had operative treatment of the fibula fracture. Of those with stabilized fibula fractures, 28 (70%) were treated with a plate and 12 (30%) with a titanium elastic nail. The group of patients with surgically treated fibula fractures had significantly more angular malalignments (10% vs 1.2%, p = 0.042), while there was no difference regarding rotational malalignment or fracture healing. Further, infections of the fibular surgical site occurred in 15% of surgically treated patients leading to significantly more revision surgeries in this group (40% vs 20%, p = 0.03). All infections occurred when a plate was used. Conclusion: This study was unable to show any benefit from stabilizing concomitant, suprasyndesmotic fibula fractures in surgically treated distal tibia fractures. On the contrary, infection, revision surgery and angular malalignment were more frequent when the fibula was fixed. Therefore, such concomitant fibula fractures should not routinely be fixed and if stabilization is deemed necessary, the implant should be chosen carefully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Distal tibial and fibular fractures are typically the result of high-energy trauma. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) are often used to reconstruct and reduce displaced fractures, especially intra-articular ones. These fractures can be addressed either by a dual-incision approach (medial approach for the distal tibia and lateral approach for the fibula) or by a single-incision direct lateral approach to fix both the tibia and fibula. The direct lateral approach avoids injury to the medial soft tissues. This study was conducted to compare the postoperative clinico-radiological and functional outcomes of the single-incision direct lateral approach and the dual-incision approach for distal tibial and fibular fractures., Materials and Methods: A prospective comparative cohort study of 40 patients was conducted. The patients were classified into two cohorts of 20 each based on the surgical approach: those who underwent a single-incision direct lateral approach and those who underwent a dual-incision approach for distal tibial and fibular fractures (procedure: ORIF with plating). The study was conducted from September 2022 to March 2024. A follow-up period of at least 12 months was carried out, comparing operative time, discharge time, and postoperative outcomes using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, ankle range of motion (ROM), Southampton wound score for wound healing, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and periodic radiographs at each follow-up. Complications were also studied., Results: The mean operative time was 95.06 ± 7.04 minutes for the single-incision approach and 109.89 ± 7.88 minutes for the dual-incision approach. The average blood loss was 202.41 ± 32.76 mL for the single-incision approach and 248.39 ± 28.18 mL for the dual-incision approach. The hospital stay was shorter in the direct lateral approach group, and the AOFAS score at 12 months was better in the direct lateral approach group (91.47 ± 2.55 for the single-incision approach vs. 83.33 ± 8.71 for the dual-incision approach). Postoperative wound healing was observed, and the Southampton wound score was compared. Overall, soft tissue complications were fewer in the direct lateral approach group. The postoperative VAS pain score was consistently lower in the single-incision direct lateral approach group, which also demonstrated better ankle ROM. The p-value was significant (<0.05) for these parameters. At the six-month follow-up, all patients exhibited clinical and radiographic healing and bone union, except for one case in the dual-incision group. A medial compound wound, treated by plastic surgery with flap cover intervention, was identified as one of the definitive indications for single-incision plating., Conclusion: The single-incision approach was associated with better soft tissue healing, fewer wound complications, and superior ankle functional outcomes compared to the dual-incision approach., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institutional Ethics Committee of the Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital issued approval IEC/IMS.SH/SOA/2023/699. This is to certify that the Institutional Ethics Committee, after due ethical consideration, has approved the aforementioned documents submitted by you. The Institutional Ethics Committee of IMS and SUM Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, reviewed and discussed the documents submitted by you on September 9, 2023, related to the conduct of the abovementioned study. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mishra et al.)

INTRODUCTION: Distal tibia fractures are frequently associated with an extensive soft tissue injury which then leads to a higher risk of complications such as infection, non-union and eventually poor overall outcome. The purpose of this study is to measure the outcome of distal tibia fractures treated with internal fixation, external fixator or Ilizarov external fixator(IEF). We aim to propose an algorithm for management of distal tibia fractures by evaluating the treatment options, outcomes and risk factors present. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is a cross-sectional study of all distal tibia fractures treated surgically in Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital, Klang from 1st January 2016 till 30th June 2018. Patient records were reviewed to analyse the outcomes of surgical treatment and risk factors associated with it. RESULTS: Ninety-one patients were included with a mean age of 41.5 years (SD = 16.4). Thirty-nine cases (42.9%) were open fractures. Thirty-eight patients (41.8%) were treated with internal fixation, 27 patients (29.7%) were treated with IEF and 26 patients (28.6%) were treated with an external fixator. Among open fractures cases, no significant finding can be concluded when comparing each surgical option and its outcome, although one option was seen better than the other in a particular outcome. Initial skeletal traction or temporary spanning external fixator in close fractures reduced the risk of mal-alignment (p value=0.001). Internal fixation is seen superior to IEF and external fixator in close fractures in term of articular surface reduction (p value =0.043) and risk of mal-alignment (p value = 0.007). CONCLUSION: There is no single method of fixation that is ideal for all pilon fractures and suitable for all patients. This proposed algorithm can help surgeons in deciding treatment strategies in the challenging management of distal tibia fractures to reduce associated complications.

Abstract Background This study aimed to analyze and compare the clinical and functional outcomes of distal tibia fractures treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN) using the suprapatellar (SP) and infrapatellar (IP) surgical approaches. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed in 63 patients with distal fractures that were treated with IMN between August 2014 and August 2018. A total of 27 and 36 patients underwent IMN using the SP and IP techniques, respectively. The surgical time, blood loss, closed reduction rate, rate of adjuvant reduction technique, fracture healing time, and complications were reviewed in this study. Anterior knee pain was assessed using the visual analog scale. The Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale were used as clinical measurements. Results A total of 63 patients, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months, were evaluated. The average surgical time, blood loss, rate of adjuvant reduction technique, closed reduction rate, fracture healing time, and Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale score were insignificantly different (P > 0.05) between the two groups. However, the SP approach was superior to the IP approach in terms of pain score, AOFAS score, and fracture deformity rate (P < 0.05). Conclusions In the treatment of distal tibia fractures, the SP IMN technique is associated with a significantly higher functional outcome, lower knee pain, and lower rate of fracture deformity than the IP IMN technique.

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Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate risk factors for infection as well as infection rates after open reduction and internal fixation for distal tibia fractures with a distal tibia locking plate and/or isolated screws.Methods: This is a retrospective and descriptive study based on 55 patients treated in our Major Trauma Centre from January 2009 to December 2016. All patients were classified by age, sex, open or closed fracture, injury mechanism, comorbidities, fixation and time from injury to surgery. 22 extraarticular fractures AO/OTA 43-A and 33 intraarticular (14 cases 43-B and 19 43-C) were recorded. High energy trauma was related in 27 patients, while open fractures were observed in 10 patients. Splint until surgery was applied routinely while temporary external fixation (EF) was performed in 21 patients (7 extraarticular and 14 intraarticular). Patients were treated by 5 different consultant surgeons performing isolated screws (SC) in 20% of the surgeries, antero-medial locking distal tibia plate (AM) and anterolateral (AL) were used in 47% and 33% of the patients respectively. After assessing normality and homogeneity of the subgroups, statistical contrast tests were performed.Results: Infection rate was 31.5%, mainly caused by S. aureus. We obtained a statistically significant correlation between greater age and infection rate. In the same way, a positive statistical trend between infection and AL plating was found. The use of EF followed by ORIF was not observed as a risk factor for infection compared with splint followed by internal fixation, however, the group of patients in which a splint was used, a positive relationship was found between the infection rate and shorter time until the definitive fixation. No statistically significant associations were found between extra/intraarticular fracture pattern, use of corticosteroids or open fractures and infection rate.Conclusion: Greater age was a predisposing factor for infection. The use of external fixation before definitive ORIF seems to be a safe procedure regarding risk infection, and if an external fixation is not used, we recommend longer waiting time until definitive ORIF. Screw fixation or antero-medial plates, if allowed by fracture pattern, can be an option to avoid infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distal tibia fractures present challenges in surgical management and when nailing is not an option, plate osteosynthesis is performed. This is usually done with a minimally invasive approach to reduce the risk of wound complications in an already fragile soft-tissue envelope. We propose that a posterolateral open approach can lead to stable fixation construct and comes with advantages of approaching fibula fractures via same approach and has a thicker soft tissue envelope over the fixation. We report a series of distal tibia fractures with posterolateral plate fixation and present the outcomes. Methods: This is a retrospective review conducted at a single institution, where 13 patients underwent posterolateral approach for distal tibia fracture fixation. Where required, medial plating and fibular fixation was additionally performed. Patients were followed-up with primary endpoint of successful clinical and radiological union or complications required re-intervention. Operative and long-term clinical outcomes were recorded. Results: Long term follow-up was available for 12 patients. There was 1 non-union requiring revision (8.3%). For the other patients, clinical union occurred by 14.5 weeks and radiological union by 20 weeks on average. There was no malunion and 2 patients (16.6%) underwent removal of implants for symptoms of hardware irritation. Conclusion: We found that outcomes in our cohort demonstrate posterolateral plating is safe as a primary or adjunctive method of fixation, and does not compromise other outcomes when compared with traditional fixation methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bishoy N Saad, John M Yingling, Frank A Liporace, Richard S Yoon Division of Orthopaedic Trauma and Complex Adult Reconstruction, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jersey City Medical Center - RWJBarnabas Health, Jersey City, NJ, USACorrespondence: Richard S YoonDivision of Orthopaedic Trauma and Complex Adult Reconstruction, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jersey City Medical Center – RWJBarnabas Health, 377 Jersey Ave, Suite 280A, Jersey City, NJ 07302, USATel +1 201 716 5850Fax +1 201 915 2424Email yoonrich@gmail.comAbstract: Pilon fractures include a wide range of complexity. The timing and type of definitive fixation is dictated by the soft tissue injury and energy imparted to the fracture. One should have a low threshold for staged protocols and delayed definitive fixation to avoid complications. Proper radiographs and advanced imaging should be obtained for an exacting diagnosis and preoperative planning. Diligent management of the soft tissue and anatomic restoration of the articular surface, length, rotation, and axial alignment with stable fixation to the diaphysis should be obtained once feasible. Intramedullary implants with percutaneous articular fixation for simple or extra-articular patterns provide good results with little soft tissue insult in the zone of injury. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis techniques can help mitigate some concerns with soft tissue compromise while obtaining good articular alignment. Locking or conventional plating with lag screw fixation is used for complex articular injuries with or without fibular fixation. External fixators are generally used for temporizing measures but can be utilized as definitive fixation when indicated. There is a role for acute fusion in severely comminuted, osteoporotic, or arthritic fractures in patients with poor healing potential. This article outlines the diagnostic workup and treatment of these vexing injuries with solutions to challenges that arise.Keywords: pilon fracture, plafond fracture, intra-articular ankle fractures, distal tibia fracture, AO/OTA 43A-C

There is no consensus on whether a fibular fracture should be fixed when a concurrent extra-articular distal tibia fracture is managed with intramedullary nails. We evaluated the use of fibular fixation in a meta-analysis of randomized trials and observational studies. Two researchers independently assessed the quality of eligible studies and extracted the data. We analyzed 4 trials with a pooled sample of 283 patients (mean age, 24 to 43 years; 141 men), 94 who had undergone fibular fixation and 189 who had not. Two randomized trials assessed on the Cochrane risk-assessment criteria were determined to have a moderate risk of bias, and 2 retrospective cohort studies evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were considered to be high quality. Tibia malalignment at follow-up times ranging from 12 to 72 weeks was reported in 20% (19/94) of patients in the fibular-fixation group and 67% (126/189) of patients in the nonfixation group, indicating that fibular fixation was significantly associated with a lower risk of malalignment (risk ratio, 0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.13 to 0.92; p =.03). The groups did not differ in the proportion of patients with malalignment immediately after surgery, delayed union, nonunion, or infection. When distal extra-articular tibia-fibular fractures are treated with intramedullary nails, fibular fixation may decrease the risk of late malalignment. Further randomized controlled trials with higher quality are required to verify the result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A biomechanical comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the retrograde tibial nailing (RTN) and distal tibia plate techniques for the treatment of distal tibia fractures. Methods: Fourteen fresh adult tibia specimens were selected, consisting of seven males and seven females aged 34-55 years. The specimens were randomly divided into two groups (Group A and Group B) using a numerical table method, with seven specimens in each group. Group A underwent internal fixation of distal tibial fractures using RTN, while Group B received internal fixation using a plate. The axial compression properties of the specimens were tested in the neutral positions under pressures of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 N. Additionally, the torsional resistance of the two groups was assessed by subjecting the specimens to torques of 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 N m. Results: At pressures of 400 and 500 N, the axial compression displacement in Group A (1.11 ± 0.06, 1.24 ± 0.05) mm was significantly smaller than that in Group B (1.21 ± 0.08, 1.37 ± 0.11) mm ( p = 0.023, 0.019). Moreover, at a pressure of 500 N, the axial compression stiffness in Group A (389.24 ± 17.79) N/mm was significantly higher than that of the control group (362.37 ± 14.44) N/mm ( p = 0.010). When subjected to torques of 4 and 5 N m, the torsion angle in Group A (2.97° ± 0.23°, 3.41° ± 0.17°) was significantly smaller compared to Group B (3.31° ± 0.28°, 3.76° ± 0.20°) ( p = 0.035, 0.004). Furthermore, at a torque of 5 N m, the torsional stiffness in Group A (1.48 ± 0.07) N m/° was significantly higher than that in Group B (1.36 ± 0.06) N·m/° ( p = 0.003). Conclusion: The results obtained from the study demonstrate that the biomechanical performance of RTN outperforms that of the distal tibial plate, providing valuable biomechanical data to support the clinical implementation of RTN., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Lin, Zhang, Yang, Yang, Wang, Lu and Liu.)

Background: Distal tibia fracture is one of the difficult fractures to manage. There are many treatment options from conservative management to operative management. Each treatment methods have its advantages and disadvantages. Minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis (MIPO) in distal tibia fracture has better outcome due to the advantages of minimal soft tissue dissection, preservation of periosteum and fracture hematoma. There is indirect reduction of fracture with correction of axial and rotation malalingement. Aims and Objective: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the functional and clinical outcome of distal tibia fracture treated with distal tibia anatomical contoured plate by MIPO technique. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study that included 56 patients of which 37 were males. 31 patients had right sided distal tibia fracture. The most common mechanisms of injuries were road traffic accidents and fall injury. There was 6 cases of type I open fracture and 3 cases of type II open fracture. The patients were followed up at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 month and 12 months’ time. Result: The mean age of the patients was 45.89 years. The mean time for partial and full weight bearing was 7.29 weeks and 14.29 weeks respectively. Radiological union was seen at 17.75 weeks. There was no case of nonunion or delayed union. The most common complication was ankle stiffness (5/56). Conclusion: MIPO is a good treatment option for unstable distal tibia fracture because of minimal soft tissue dissection and preservation of periosteum and fracture hematoma.

The management of pilon fractures remains challenging owing to the high-energy axial loading mechanism that produces comminution of the articular surface, displacement of tibia metaphysis, and severe soft tissue injury. How to preserve the vitality of soft tissue and achieve anatomic reduction has become a timely issue. We report and evaluate the effect of a modified staging treatment for AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) 43C1 pilon fracture accompanied by distal fibular and posterior lip of the distal tibia fracture. We performed a modified 2-stage treatment of type C1 pilon fracture with distal fibular and posterior malleolar fractures. In the first stage, the posterolateral incision was used for simultaneous reduction of fibula and posterior malleolus, and the tibia was fixed with an external fixator. In the second stage, the external fixator was removed, and the medial malleolus and tibia were fixed after the edema of soft tissue had subsided. The following data were collected: Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Short Form 36 (SF-36) score, Burwell-Charnley fracture reduction score, and postoperative complications. Twenty-seven patients were monitored for an average of 31.70 ± 7.38 months. The Burwell-Charnley fracture reduction scores had anatomic and fair ratings of 92.59%. SF-36 physical component score was 42.94 ± 12.47 and mental component score was 48.73 ± 9.79. Score data from the multiple scales of FAOS included pain, 88.79 ± 8.59; activities of daily living, 91.89 ± 7.50; quality of life, 90.26 ± 10.52; sports, 87.93 ± 11.64; and symptoms, 85.32 ± 8.65. The AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores were 87.30 ± 13.45. Complications were reported in 5 patients (18.52%). Our study provides a good alternative to the existing protocol for type C1 pilon fractures with distal fibular and posterior lip of the distal tibia fracture and effectively reduces soft tissue complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric ankle injuries require timely diagnosis due to their involvement of the distal tibial physis and subsequent impact on long bone growth. These injuries occur in a predictable pattern based on ankle position, direction of force, and degree of closure of the distal tibial physis. The Dias-Tachdjian classification describes possible ankle injury patterns for the completely open physis, and we present a simplified algorithm for applying this system in routine radiographic interpretation. Similar to the Lauge-Hansen classification in adults, the Dias-Tachdjian system is based on the position of the foot and direction of force at the time of injury with four major patterns: supination-inversion, pronation-eversion external rotation, supination-plantar flexion, and supination-external rotation. In addition, we examine the effect that the closing distal tibial physis has on adolescent fracture patterns (specifically, Tillaux and triplane fractures). Awareness of these injury patterns helps the radiologist to identify nondisplaced fractures and subtle physeal injuries with implications for surgical and/or conservative management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background :Treatment of fracture distal tibia is challenging. Classic open reduction and internal plate fixation requires extensive soft tissue dissection and causes periosteal injury. The locking screw-plate interface allows fracture fixation without plate–bone adherence, thus preserving the fracture hematoma, and reduces the risk of nonunion by maintaining microvascular circulation within the cortex and its investing tissues. Material & Methods: This study included 33 patients of age between 18 to 62 years with extra-articular and simple intra-articular fracture of distal tibia. All fractures were fixed by minimally invasive technique with pre-countered distal tibia locking plate under image intensifier control. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale was used for functional assessment. Results: Out of 33 there were twelve 43-A1, five A2, five A3, five B1, three B2, two C, one C2 fractures. There were 29 closed fracture and four open fracture (three type I and one type II). The overall mean time of union was 16.3 weeks. The mean AOFAS score was 93 points. In all 30 cases there were no wound problems, whereas three cases had superficial wound infection. No any cases needed secondary procedure for healing of bone. Conclusion: The short-term results shows that minimally invasive locked plating is good solution for the challenging distal tibia fracture. This technique minimizes soft tissue complication and provides good union and functional outcome. Journal of Nobel Medical College Volume 6, Number 1, Issue 10 (January-June, 2017), page: 12-19

Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the management of distal tibial fractures treated by interlocking nail and plate osteosynthesis and to assess their functional outcome according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and complications. Methods Twenty patients were operated on in each group, i.e., intramedullary nailing (IMN) and plating (minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis, MIPO). The patients were regularly followed up at six weeks, 12 weeks, six months, and one year and evaluated clinically and radiologically with respect to operating time, union time, and functional outcome on the basis of AOFAS score and complications. Results The mean union time for the IMN group was 18.45±2.45 weeks and for the MIPO group was 20±3.21 weeks (p-value >0.05). The mean AOFAS score in the MIPO group was 91.2±6.81 and in the IMN group was 92.6±5.41 (p-value >0.05). Lesser complications in terms of implant irritation, ankle stiffness, and infection were observed in the IMN group than in the MIPO group (p-value <0.05). Conclusion Both the IMN and MIPO groups had satisfactory outcomes for treating distal tibial fractures, with a higher risk of wound complications in the MIPO group., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2023, Nath et al.)

Aim: Our study aims to retrospectively evaluate the clinical, radiological and functional results of MIPO (minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis) in the treatment of tibial shaft and tibia distal 1/3 fractures. Material and Methods: Seventeen patients who underwent MIPO surgery due to tibial shaft and tibia distal 1/3 fractures between March 2011 - March 2015 were included in this study. Several parameters evaluated including radiological union, full-weight bearing, alignment problems, soft tissue complications, implant irritation, implant removal and AOFAS Score. Results: The most common fractures were noted as 42-A1, 42-B1 and 43-A1 according to AO/OTA Classification. The average followup period was 29.5 months (5-47 months). The average time for union was 4.7 months (2.5-10 months). The average period for full weight-bearing was 5.2 months (1-12 months). One patient (5.8%) had malunion (6 degrees of anterior angulation). Ten (58.8%) patients had complaints about medial sided ankle pain with wearing long boots. Three patients (17.6%) underwent implant removal. Average AOFAS score was 85.7 (63-100). Conclusion: MIPO is a safe and effective method for the tibial shaft and the tibia distal 1/3 region fractures regarding the high union rates, low complication incidence and good functional results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Staged care has proven to be an effective treatment strategy for distal tibia pilon (AO/OTA Classification 43) fractures. • Previous reports suggest an association between the overlap of ex-fix pin sites and definitive implants with deep infection. • In this cohort, pin site distance from definitive implant location was not associated with an increase in deep infections. Abstract Introduction Tibial pilon fractures are often treated with initial external fixation followed by delayed definitive fixation. It has been postulated that the external fixator pin site may correlate with infection risk. The purpose of this study was to determine whether external fixator pin-site distance from definitive implants impacts the risk of deep infection in pilon fractures. Materials and methods A retrospective cohort study was completed at a single level 1 trauma center. All patients ages 15–65 who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a distal tibial fracture (AO/OTA Classification 43) from 2007 to 2013 were included. The final study population was 133 patients. The impact of external fixation pin location (relative to the definitive implant location) on postoperative infection was measured. Results As a continuous variable, the distance between the closest pin site and plate was 62.1 ± 44.1 mm in the infected cohort and 62.2 ± 49.7 mm in the non-infected cohort (p = 0.991). Further analysis was performed by grouping the distances into less than 0 mm (i.e. overlapping), >0.0 – 25.0 mm, >25.0 – 50.0 mm, >50.0 – 75.0 mm, >75.0 – 100.0 mm, and >100.0 mm of separation. No significant differences were noted with regards to the risk for infection. Conclusions Staged care has been shown to be an effective treatment strategy for AO/OTA type 43 fractures. There are many variables to consider when placing an external fixator construct. In this cohort, pin site distance from definitive implant location was not associated with an increase in deep infections. Level of evidence Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Tibial plafond, or pilon, fractures can be some of the most difficult fractures to manage. As they are often associated with high-energy trauma, both the soft tissue involvement and the comminuted fracture pattern pose challenges to fixation. Furthermore, the complex anatomy and trauma to the cartilage at the time of injury predispose pilon fractures to poor functional outcomes and high rates of posttraumatic arthritis. This review will discuss the recent developments in the treatment of tibial pilon fractures.Recent Findings: Historically, surgical management of pilon fractures has been associated with high rates of complications, including wound complications, infections, nonunions, and even the need for amputation. In response, staged protocols were created. However, recent studies have called this into question, demonstrating low wound complications with early definitive fixation. Additional studies are evaluating adjuvants to minimize wound complications, including the use of vancomycin powder and oxygen supplementation, while another study challenges the 7-cm myth regarding the distance needed between skin incisions. Additional research has been focused on alternative methods of managing these complex, and sometimes non-reconstructable, injuries with the use of external fixation, minimally invasive internal fixation, and primary arthrodesis.Summary: Tibial pilon fractures remain difficult to treat for even the most skilled orthopedic trauma surgeons. With improvements in surgical techniques and implants, complication rates have declined and outcomes have improved; however, the overall prognosis for these injuries often remains poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) are rare but serious complications after foot and ankle fracture surgery. A consensus definition of a high-risk patient has not been reached, leading to significant variability in the use of pharmacologic agents for VTE prophylaxis. The aim of this study was to develop a model for predicting VTE risk in patients undergoing surgery for foot and ankle fractures that is usable and scalable in clinical practice. A retrospective review of 15,342 patients, within the ACS-NSQIP database, who had undergone surgical repair of foot and ankle fractures from 2015 to 2019 was performed. Univariate analysis evaluated differences in demographics and comorbidities. Stepwise multivariate logistic regression was generated based on a 60 % development cohort to evaluate risk factors for VTE. A receiver operator curve based on the 40 % test cohort calculated area under the curve (AUC) to measure the accuracy of the model in predicting VTE within the 30-day postoperative period. Of the 15,342 patients, 1.2 % patients experienced VTE, and 98.8 % patients did not. Patients who experienced VTE were significantly older and had an overall higher comorbidity burden. Those who had VTE spent on average 10.5 more minutes in the operating room. In the final model, age over 65, diabetes, dyspnea, CHF, dialysis, wound infection and bleeding disorders were all found to be significant predictors of VTE after controlling for all other factors. The model generated an AUC of 0.731, indicating good predictive accuracy. The predictive model is publicly available at https://shinyapps.io/VTE%5fPrediction/. In alignment with previous studies, we identified increased age and bleeding disorders as independent risk factors for VTE after foot and ankle fracture surgery. This is one of the first studies to generate and test a model for identifying patients at risk for VTE in this population. This evidence-based model may help surgeons prospectively identify high-risk patients who may benefit from pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis. • Age over 65, diabetes, dyspnea, CHF, dialysis, wound infection and bleeding disorders were significant predictors of VTE. • Independent functional status was a significant protective factor of VTE. • Surgery type did not improve overall predictive accuracy of VTE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Distal tibia fractures often occur in younger, high demand patients, though the literature surrounding management remains contentious. This study sought to quantitatively determine differences in kneeling ability and self-reported knee function in patients managed with either intramedullary nailing (IMN) or open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with compression plating following distal tibia fracture to assist in the preoperative consent process., Hypothesis: There is no difference in kneeling tolerance following either tibial nailing or plate fixation of distal tibia fractures., Material and Methods: Retrospective sampling of public hospital data with outpatient prospective functional testing were completed. The primary outcome measure was the Kneeling Test (KT). Secondary outcome measures were The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) for the knee joint. There were 28 patients recruited (18 IMN and 10 ORIF) with a mean age of 44years. Mean overall follow-up was 13.3months (range 8-25, SD 3.6). All fractures had completely healed without postoperative complication., Results: The IMN affected limb had a significantly worse overall kneeling function than their non-affected limb (mean KT: 70.4 vs. 94.9 respectively, p<0.005) Additionally, the IMN group performed significantly worse when compared to the ORIF group (mean KT 70.4 vs. 92.5 respectively, p<0.005). No significant differences (p>0.05) in kneeling function existed for the ORIF group when comparing affected to non-affected limbs. Secondary outcome analysis showed significantly worse overall WOMAC and FJS in the IMN group compared to the ORIF group (mean WOMAC 19.3 vs. 6.9 respectively, p=0.040; mean FJS 38.3 vs. 75.9 respectively, p=0.005)., Discussion: The use of intramedullary nailing for the treatment of distal tibia fracture results in a mean reduction of 20% in kneeling tolerance in comparison to ORIF. The resulting kneeling tolerance is comparable to that of patients post-total knee arthroplasty. The present findings should assist in the consent process for patients with high kneeling demands in sportive, professional or cultural pastimes., Level of Evidence: IV; retrospective cohort study with quantitative outcome measurement., (Crown Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background: Distal tibia fracture is one of the difficult fractures to manage. There are many treatment options from conservative management to operative management. Each treatment methods have its advantages and disadvantages. Minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis (MIPO) in distal tibia fracture has better outcome due to the advantages of minimal soft tissue dissection, preservation of periosteum and fracture hematoma. There is indirect reduction of fracture with correction of axial and rotation malalingement. Aims and Objective: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the functional and clinical outcome of distal tibia fracture treated with distal tibia anatomical contoured plate by MIPO technique. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study that included 56 patients of which 37 were males. 31 patients had right sided distal tibia fracture. The most common mechanisms of injuries were road traffic accidents and fall injury. There was 6 cases of type I open fracture and 3 cases of type II open fracture. The patients were followed up at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 month and 12 months' time. Result: The mean age of the patients was 45.89 years. The mean time for partial and full weight bearing was 7.29 weeks and 14.29 weeks respectively. Radiological union was seen at 17.75 weeks. There was no case of nonunion or delayed union. The most common complication was ankle stiffness (5/56). Conclusion: MIPO is a good treatment option for unstable distal tibia fracture because of minimal soft tissue dissection and preservation of periosteum and fracture hematoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Managing fractures of distal tibia is still a subject of debate for orthopaedic surgeons in terms of both, reduction and fixation. Subcutaneous location and soft tissue anatomy predisposes it to angular and rotational instability as well as other bony and soft tissue complexities. Minimally invasive plating offers many advantages over conventional open techniques. It causes minimal soft tissue dissection and surgical trauma to the bone. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis(MIPO) maintains biological configuration of distal tibia and fracture hematoma and also provides a construct, which is biomechanically more stable.Objectives: Evaluation of results of MIPO in management of distal tibia fractures considering radiological union, ankle function restoration, and complications.Materials and Methods: In our study, 25 closed distal one-third tibia fracture with/without articular extension were taken, fulfilling the inclusion criteria (AO classification: 10, 43A1; 3, 43A2; 2, 43B1; 4, 43B2; and 6, 43C1). MIPO with locking plates was the treatment undertaken. Patients were followed up for 18 months prospectively.Results: Average injury-hospital interval was 11.16 hours and average injury-operation interval was 2.44 days. All fractures showed radiological union at an average duration of 20.5 weeks (14-28 weeks). Olerud and Molander score was used for evaluation at 3, 6, and 18 months. One patient had union with valgus angulation >5° but there was no nonunion. There was 1 superficial postoperative wound infection.Conclusion: Our study shows that plating with MIPO is an effective treatment for closed distal one-third tibia fractures, considering union time and complications rate. Younger age promotes early union and functional recovery.Levels Of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level II: Prospective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distal tibia fractures are reported to have a high complication rate pre-operatively as well as post-operatively, which can include open fractures, soft tissue damage, infection, malalignment, pseudarthrosis and ankle arthrosis. The operative treatment for the extra-articular distal tibia fractures is a controversial topic in the orthopaedic literature. Some of these fractures are proximal enough to be treated with an intramedullary nail while others are too distal for that. The aim of our study was to compare the results we have had with intramedullary nail (IMN) and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) in distal metaphyseal (extra-articular) tibia fractures. The study was designed prospectively between January 2013 and March 2016 and took place on the Orthopaedics and Traumatology ward of a Clinical Emergency County Hospital in western Romania. The follow-up visits were scheduled one month, three months and six months post-operatively. For evaluating the ankle function, we used the Olerud-Molander ankle score (OMAS) and union was evaluated at six months on ankle X-rays. At the six-month follow-up visit the average scores were 75.55 (20-100) for the IMN lot and 74.23 (20-90) for the MIPO lot, without finding any statistical difference between the two groups (p >0.1). At the six-month follow-up, X-ray union was objected in 48 (90.5%) of our patients, the IMN lot having worse results (85.18%) than the MIPO lot (96.15%). The results we encountered showed little to no statistical difference when it comes to the functional score we used (OMAS score), leading us to believe that you can achieve comparable results with both implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The limited soft tissue, subcutaneous location and poor vascularity render the dista tibial fractures very challenging. Treatment of distal tibial fractures using minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis technique may minimise damage to soft tissues and vascular integrity of bony fragments, leaving comminuted fragments out of the mechanical construct, preserving soft tissues with limited operative exposure. Objective: To assess the outcome of patients treated with minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis technique for closed distal tibial fractures. Methods: The study included total of 30 patients (24males and 6females) with close distal tibia fracture, which were treated with distal tibia locking plate using minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis technique. Results: The mean ages of the patient were 44.23 years (30 to58 years). Patients were followed up at 2 weeks, 6weeks, 12weeks, 24weeks and 1 year after the operation and evaluated clinically and radiologically. Among 30 pateints, all fractures went to union. The mean American orthopaedic foot and ankle score was 89.23% (SD-3.92). There was 2case of superficial infection and 3 case of plate impingement with no intraoperative complication and mortality rates. Conclusion: Minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis is an effective technique for the management of distal tibial fractures. It is minimally invasive, though technically demanding, but preserves the biological environment by preserving the soft tissue with better outcome in terms of radiological union and functional outcome. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-2, 38-44 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i2.9686

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine time to union of extra-articular distal tibia nonunions based on fracture type and fixation methods: intramedullary nail (IMN), plate osteosynthesis (PO), and external fixation (EF).Methods: This retrospective chart review included all patients who presented at a Level I trauma center with AO/OTA 43A & distal third 42A-C fracture nonunions between 2008 and 2014. Fixation methods were recorded and patient course was followed until nonunion had healed clinically.Results: Thirty-three distal tibia nonunions were included, and 29 reached eventual union (88%). Five AO/OTA fracture types were present. Mean times to union from nonunion diagnosis between original fracture types were compared (p = 0.203). Comminuted fracture types had longer times to union from nonunion diagnosis compared to simple fracture types (78 vs. 46 weeks, p = 0.051) and more revision fixations (1.5 vs. 0.5, p = 0.037). Mean time to union from nonunion diagnosis was shorter when no revision fixation was done compared to revisions (15 vs. 42 weeks, p = 0.102). Times to union from nonunion diagnosis without revision fixation were: IMN (12 weeks), PO (27 weeks), and EF (13 weeks) (p = 0.202). Times to union from definitive revision fixation were: IMN (17 weeks), PO (21 weeks), and EF (66 weeks) (p = 0.009), with EF taking significantly longer than both other methods. 21 patients (64%) underwent revision fixation. Revision fail rates were: IMN (0/6, 0%), PO (2/8, 25%), and EF (15/21, 71%). Time to union was longer in revisions that changed fixation method compared to revisions that used the same method (51 vs. 18 weeks, p = 0.030). Deep infections were also associated with longer union times (81 vs. 47 weeks, p = 0.040).Conclusions: In this nonunion population, comminuted fracture types needed more time and revisions to reach union. Time to union was only clinically shorter when revision fixation was not performed, but IMN and PO were both successful fixation options with significantly shorter times to union than EF. Mean time to union increased even more when revision of fixation method was performed vs. exchange revision, as did nonunions with deep infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The treatment of extra-articular distal tibia fractures is a difficult challenge. Minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis (MIPO) and intramedullary nailing (IMN) are satisfactory extra-articular distal tibia fractures. The optimal surgical treatment for extra-articular distal tibia fractures remains controversial. The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of patients with extra-articular distal tibia fractures treated with MIPO or IMN., Methods: For this retrospective study, a total of 266 patients with closed extra-articular distal metaphysis (AO type 43-A) or closed distal tibial fracture (AO type 42) were enrolled and included; 110 patients were treated with MIPO, and 156 patients underwent IMN., Results: There was no significant difference in the primary operation union rate, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle surgery (AOFAS) score, deep surgical site infection or malalignment between the MIPO and IMN groups. However, there was a longer operation time, more prospective times, more intraoperative blood loss and more frequent anterior knee pain in the IMN groups than that in the MIPO group. There was a significantly shorter time to union in the IMN group than that in the MIPO group (138.8±11.0 vs. 153.5±17.1 days, P < 0.05) and a lower superficial surgical site infection in the IMN group than that in the MIPO group (1.9% vs. 8.2%, P < 0.05)., Conclusions: We found that extra-articular distal tibia fractures can be treated satisfactorily with IMN or MIPO. Poller blocking screws have a main role in improving the efficacy of IMN. For patients with poor basic physical conditions or knee pain before fracture, MIPO is preferred to treat extra-articular distal tibia fractures. Whereas, for patients with poor local soft tissue conditions, IMN was recommended as a first choice., Competing Interests: None., (AJTR Copyright © 2023.)

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of complications and the functional outcome following ORIF with low-profile locking plates in patients with distal tibia fractures.Method: Retrospective data was retrieved using county databases, operation books, health record and X-ray images for 6 hospitals (1 level 1, 5 level 2) in the Region of Southern Denmark. Between January 2007 and April 2011 70 consecutive patients with 71 distal tibia fractures were treated with low-profile locking plate were included. The proportion of post-operative complications, classified as minor and major complications, was retrieved from electronic health records and patient interviews. Long-term functional outcome assessed by EuroQol EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot scale, and return to pre-injury job function through patient interview and examination.Results: There were 32 43A, 5 43B and 34 43C-fractures, 12 open and 10 high-energy fractures. Forty-nine cases (69%) experienced complications during the follow-up time, of which 34 were minor complications and 15 were major complications. Median EQ-5D-5L index value was 0.76, median EQ VAS-score was 80, and median AOFAS score was 73. Thirty-three percent of working patients had not returned to work as a result of the fracture.Conclusions: Our study suggest that treatment of distal tibia fractures with low-profile locking plates might have a higher proportion of complications and worse functional outcome than previously reported.Level Of Evidence: Therapeutic level IV Case Serie. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The locked screw plate construct is often cited as being too rigid and prolonging healing in patients with metaphyseal fractures. The newly introduced dynamic locking screws (DLS) allow 0.2 mm of axial motion, which should optimize healing near the near cortex. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical results of dynamic locking screws in distal tibia fractures. Methods: Data were acquired retrospectively. Only distal meta-diaphyseal tibia fractures treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis and DLS were evaluated. Cortical and locking head screws were used for distal plate fixation to minimize soft tissue irritation over the medial malleolus, and DLS were used in the proximal plate fixation. Clinical and radiographic data were evaluated after 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year until fracture union. Results: Twenty-two patients were treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis and DLS. Six patients could not be evaluated because they returned to a foreign residence after the procedure. Fourteen fractures healed after a mean of 3.1 months. Two fractures with insufficient reduction showed delayed union and healed after 9 and 9.5 months, respectively. The callus index peaked at 6 months. Conclusions: Dynamic fracture fixation might be a promising concept to reduce the frequency of metaphyseal non-unions in distal tibia fractures. But nevertheless, the dynamic construct cannot compensate for insufficient reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intramedullary (IM) nailing is a well-accepted treatment for distal third tibia fractures in combination with injury to the fibula. However, the indications for operative stabilisation of the fibula remain controversial. Methods: The authors performed a retrospective review on a consecutive series of patients who underwent intramedullary nailing of a non-comminuted distal third tibia fracture with or without fibular fixation at a Level I urban trauma centre. A review of surgical records identified 120 patients who initially were included in this study, while a total of 98 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. Results: Our results found no difference in the mean value of coronal and sagittal plane alignment in both the immediate post-operative and follow-up time periods. We also saw no statistically significant difference when comparing malalignment between patients treated with or without fibula fixation. There were no deep infections between the two groups. No significant differences were seen between the fibular fixation group and the non-fixation group. Distal screw removal due to prominence or pain was the most common reason for future surgery in both groups. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the addition of fibular fixation does not affect whether or not alignment is maintained in either the immediate post-operative or short-term follow-up period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In certain forms of nerve injury and inflammation, noradrenaline augments pain via actions on up-regulated α 1 -adrenoceptors (α 1 -ARs). The aim of this study was to use immunohistochemistry to examine α 1 -AR expression on peripheral neurons, cutaneous blood vessels and keratinocytes after distal tibia fracture and cast immobilization, a model of complex regional pain syndrome type 1. We hypothesized that there would be increased α 1 -AR expression on neurons and keratinocytes in the injured limb in comparison to the contralateral unaffected limb after distal tibia fracture, in association with inflammatory changes and pain. α 1 -AR expression was increased on plantar keratinocytes, dermal blood vessels and peripheral nerve fibers at 16 weeks after injury both in the fractured and contralateral uninjured limb. Similar changes were seen in controls whose limb had been immobilized in a cast for 4 weeks but not fractured. Neurofilament 200 (NF200), a marker of myelinated neurons, and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a neuropeptide involved in neuro-inflammatory signaling, decreased 4 weeks after fracture and casting but then increased at the 16-week time point. As some of these changes were also detected in the contralateral hind limb, they probably were triggered by a systemic response to fracture and casting. Soon after the cast was removed, intraplantar injections of the α 1 -AR antagonist prazosin released local vasoconstrictor tone but had no effect on pain behaviors. However, systemic injection of prazosin inhibited behavioral signs of pain, suggesting that fracture and/or casting triggered an up-regulation of α 1 -ARs in central nociceptive pathways that augmented pain. Together, these findings indicate that α 1 -AR expression increases in the hind limbs after distal tibia fracture and cast immobilization. However, these peripheral increases do not contribute directly to residual pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background External fixation combined with limited open reduction and internal fixation (EF + LORIF) is a well-accepted and effective method for distal tibia shaft fractures, but it was also related to complications. The objective of this study was to compare external fixation combined with closed reduction and internal fixation (EF + CRIF) with EF + LORIF in the treatment of distal tibia shaft fractures, and explore the benefits and defects of these two techniques. Methods Fifty-six patients were randomised to operative stabilisation either by an external fixator combined with two closed titanium elastic nails or by external fixation combined with limited open reduction and internal fixation. Pre-operative variables included the patients’ age, sex, the affected side, cause of injury, Tscherne classification of soft tissue injury, fracture pattern, and time from injury to surgery. Peri-operative variables were the operating time and the radiation time. Postoperative variables were wound problems and other complications, union time, time of recovery to work, the functional American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle surgery (AOFAS) score. Results There was no significant difference in the mean operating time (72.6 ± 11.5 vs. 78.5 ± 16.4 min, P = 0.125), the time to union (21.2 ± 11.0 vs. 22.5 ± 12.3 weeks, P = 0.678), the time of recovery to work (25.0 ± 14.5 vs. 26.4 ± 13.6 weeks, P = 0.711), pin track infection (3/28 vs. 4/28, P = 1.000), delayed union (2/28 vs. 3/28, P = 1.000), pain (38.3 ± 1.6 vs. 38.7 ± 1.5, P = 0.339), function (44.4 ± 6.0 vs. 45.0 ± 5.5, P = 0.698), and total AOFAS scores (91.5 ± 7.4 vs. 93.4 ± 6.8, P = 0.322) between the two groups. However, the mean radiation time was longer in the EF + CRIF group than in the EF + LORIF group (2.0 ± 1.2 vs. 0.3 ± 0.1 min, P < 0.01). The EF + CRIF group had no wound complications while the EF + LORIF group had five wound complications, though the difference was not statistically significant ( P = 0.052). Acceptable alignment was obtained in 50 patients (22 in EF + CRIF vs. 28 in EF + LORIF, P = 0.023). Two cases with EF + CRIF had a 6 degrees of recurvatum deformity and four had 6–9 degrees of valgus deformity. Conclusion Our results indicated that both EF + CRIF and EF + LORIF were reliable methods in treatment of distal tibia shaft fractures. EF + CRIF had fewer wound complications and broader indications while EF + LORIF had lower radiation exposure and better alignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this study was to compare combined internal and external fixation (CIEF) with minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO) in the treatment of distal third tibial fractures, and explore the benefits and defects of these two techniques. Methods: From April 2004 to February 2012, a total of 44 patients were randomised to operative stabilisation either by two closed titanium elastic nails combined with an external fixator (CIEF, 22) or by minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis with a locking plate (MIPPO, 22). Pre-operative variables included the patients' age, sex, fracture side, cause of injury, Tscherne classification of soft tissue injury, fracture pattern, presence of open fracture and interval from injury to surgery. Peri-operative variables were the operating time and the radiation time. Postoperative variables were wound problems, bone union time, time of recovery to work, the functional American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle surgery (AOFAS) score and removal of hardware. Results: There was no significant difference in the time to union, the time of recovery to work, function, alignment and total AOFAS scores between the two groups ( P = 0.704, 0.835, 0.551, 0.716 and 0.212, respectively). The mean operating time and radiation time were longer in the MIPPO group than in the CIEF group (85.3 ± 12.5 vs. 73.2 ± 12.0 minutes, P = 0.002, and 3.1 ± 1.5 vs. 2.1 ± 1.2 minutes, P = 0.019, respectively). Wound complications were more common in the MIPPO group (18.2 % vs. 0 % with CIEF, P = 0.105). There was a trend for patients with MIPPO to have a higher incidence of ankle pain (31.8 % vs. 9.1 % with CIEF, P = 0.135). Painful implants were removed in 31.8 % of patients with MIPPO versus 9.1 % with CIEF ( P = 0.135). Of the 165 self-tapping locking screws of the locking plates seven (four patients) were removed with some difficulty because of stripping of the hexagonal recess. Conclusions: Our results indicated that both CIEF and MIPPO were all efficient methods for treating distal third tibial fractures. However, CIEF had the advantages of a shorter operating and radiation time, less wound complication and ankle pain, less secondary operations for implant removal and easier removal of the implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) is an established technique for fixation of fractures of the distal third tibia. Our study aimed to manage intra articular and extraarticular fractures of the distal third tibia by the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis technique and follow them prospectively. Clinical and radiological outcomes were studied and clinical indications & efficacy of the procedure reviewed. Though many studies on the subject have been done previously, these have been retrospective reviews or small series. Methods From May 2010 to May 2013, 50 patients of closed distal tibial fractures were operated by MIPO technique with a distal tibial anatomical locking plate having 4.5/5 proximal and 3.5/4 distal screw holes. The follow up duration was for 3 years. Results The mean fracture healing time was 21.4 weeks (range 16–32 weeks) and average AOFAS score 95.06 was out of a total possible 100 points. At last follow up, superficial infection occurred in 5 patients (10%); deep infection, implant failure and malunion in 1-patient each (2%). Conclusion MIPO technique provides good, though slightly delayed bone healing and decreases incidence of nonunion and need for bone grafting. This technique should be used in distal tibia fractures where locked nailing cannot be done like fractures with small distal metaphyseal fragments, vertical splits, markedly comminuted fractures and in fractures with intra-articular extension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]