Abstract
Fractures of the distal tibia metaphysis comprise a challenge for the orthopaedic trauma surgeon because of the poor blood irrigation they do not heal very easy leading sometimes to pseudarthrosis and many times arise problems with the skin.
We compare the following techniques: LC-DCP and LCP plates, MIPO, External fixators (hybrids or simple one), intramedullary nailing with multiple screws at the distal end.
94 cases of distal tibia fractures from all AO types were treated during last 3 years (2005–2008) with the following techniques:
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16 ORIF with LC-DCP plates
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9 ORIF with LCP plates
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19 MIPO
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35 External fixators
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15 intramedullary nailing
The simple oblique or spiral fractures which treated with the 1st and 2nd method (ORIF), they do not seem any remarkable difference in healing but both methods demonstrate a delay in fracture healing over 5 months. The 3rd method display faster healing 2,5 months average in simple fractures with no skin wound at all. The 4th method display 3 pin track infections and dealt with removal of the material and 2 pseudarthrosis which encountered with ORIF and bone grafting from the iliac. The 5th method display 2 malunions but because of the small angle in varus we do not perform any treatment. Every technique has its own position on those type of fractures, depending of the personality of the fracture and the skill of the surgeon.
Correspondence should be addressed to Anastasia C. Tilentzoglou MD, General Secretary of the Board of Directors of HAOST, 20 A. Fleming Str. (N.Filothei), Gr. 15123 Maroussi, Athens Greece. E-mail: info@eexot.gr
