Abstract
Fractures of the distal metaphysis of the tibia represent 7–10% of tibial fractures and less than 1% of the lower limb fractures.
Their treatment is difficult and presents a high percentage of bad results because of comminution of the metaphyseal bone fragments, articular involvement, poor circulation in the distal third of the leg. Until few years ago, in presence of a comminuted fracture, the only surgical possibility was the use of plate and screws. The external fixation represented a temporaneous treatment in case of open fracture or severe soft tissue damage. The recent technology applicated to external fixation has transformed the external fixator in synthesis device less uncomfortable, to increase the compliance of the patient, and more stable, to be used in the definitive treatment of this fractures. Recently we change the external fixator with double ring in a monolateral external fixator with single ring, in the “hybrid frame”.
Correspondence should be addressed to Ariella Neustadt at Studio EGA, Professional Congress Organisers, Viale Tiziano, 19 - 00196, Rome - Italy.
The authors will present their experience and suggest the external fixation for the treatment of pilon fractures.
