Publication: Evaluation of Anterolateral Plating of Distal Third Tibial Fractures
Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Distal one-third tibial fractures with or without articular involvement can be difficult
to manage. Variety of treatment methods have been suggested for these injuries,
including conservative treatment, external fixation with or without limited internal
fixation, intramedullary nailing, plate fixation (medial or anterolateral) and more
recently minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). All of these techniques
have advantages and disadvantages. None of these techniques can be considered
the “gold standard” for these injuries.
Objective
The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the results of anterolateral
plating of these fractures.
Method
Forty-five fractures of distal third of tibia were treated with open reduction and
internal fixation with anterolateral tibial plate from December 2011 to December
2016. All the patients were followed up at least for nine months for the study.
Radiological union was finally assessed in nine months.
Result
All the fractures united within nine months of plating without angulation in sagittal
or coronal plane. One patient (2%) had limb length shortening of more than one cm.
Full range of motion of ankle and knee joint was achieved compared to the normal
side by nine months follow up. 17 (38%) patients developed marginal skin necrosis.
Three (7%) patients developed superficial wound infection. These complications
were seen more in patients in whom posterior below knee slab was used for pre-
operative splintage (as compared to calcaneal traction).
Conclusion
Hence distal one-third tibial fractures with or without articular involvement can be
treated with anterolateral tibial plate.
KEY WORDS
Anterolateral, Distal, Fracture, Plating, Tibia
Description
Pandey BK, Rijal KP, Prasai T, Pradhan RL, Lakhey S, Manandhar RR, Sharma S
Department of Orthopaedics
Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital
Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Keywords
Anterolateral, Distal, Fracture, Plating, Tibia