Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis - an update

The advent of locking plates for the management of metaphyseal fractures, and subsequent experience of biological fracture fixation, has led to the development of minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis (MIPO), which is now proven to have multiple advantages. Soft tissue stripping is minimized, with preservation of vascular pedicles, and the fracture haematoma around the site of injury remains undisturbed promoting fracture healing. While early published results are encouraging, MIPO technique is not applicable to every fracture. To avoid complications, defining the correct indications is of paramount importance. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.