Introduction. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) is a relatively new surgical technique for the management of distal tibial fractures. Conventional open technique is unfavourable to the fracture biology because of excessive soft tissue stripping and can be associated with significant devastating complications. Objective. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the MIPO technique for distal tibial fractures. Methods. Between 2004 and 2010 twenty-nine consecutive patients had distal tibial fractures treated with MIPO by the senior author. An anteromedial plate (Synthes®) was used for all patients. Case notes and radiographs of all patients were reviewed and data, including demographics, fracture classification, complications and fracture healing were recorded on a database. Results. 29 Patients with a median age of 46 (range 25–82) were reviewed. 12 were female and 17 were male. Mean follow-up was 6.24 months. Using the AO classification there were 16 type A, 1 type B and 12 were type C fractures. Ruedi-Allgower classification showed 6 Group I fractures, 5 Group II fractures and 2 Group III fractures. There were no open fractures. 5 patients had temporary external fixation prior to MIPO. 28 patients had associated fibular fractures of which 6 required open reduction and internal fixation (through a separate surgical incision). There were no postoperative wound complications. No malunion or intraarticular displacement was noted radiographically. Two patients had delayed union but went on to heal without secondary procedures. There was 1 case of non-union. Two patients subsequently had their plates removed due to prominence of the metal work. Conclusion. We conclude that the MIPO technique is safe and effective treatment for the management of distal tibial fractures. Complications associated with MIPO are infrequent and manageable

Introduction. Intra articular distal tibia fractures can lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Joint distraction has shown promise in elective cases. However, its application in acute fractures remains unexplored. This pilot study aims to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the benefits of joint distraction in acute fractures. Materials & Methods. We undertook a restrospective cohort study comprising patients with intra-articular distal tibia and pilon fractures treated with a circular ring fixator (CRF) at a single center. Prospective data collection included radiological assessments, Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROM), necessity for additional procedures, and Kellgren and Lawrence grade (KL) for osteoarthritis (OA). 137 patients were included in the study, 30 in the distraction group and 107 in the non-distraction group. There was no significant difference between the groups. Results. Mean follow-up was 3.73 years. There was no significant difference between the groups in overall complications or need for further procedures. There was no significant difference in progression of KL between the groups (1.81 vs 2.0, p=0.38) mean follow up 1.90 years. PROM data was available for 44 patients (6 distraction, 38 non-distraction) with a mean follow-up of 1.71 years. There was no significant difference in EQ5D (p=0.32) and C Olerud-H Molander scores (p=0.17). Conclusions. This pilot study suggests that joint distraction is safe in the acute setting. However, the study's impact is constrained by a relatively small patient cohort and a short-term follow-up period. Future investigations should prioritise longer-term follow-ups and involve a larger patient population to more comprehensively evaluate the potential benefits of joint distraction in acute fractures

Introduction. Intramedullary nailing is gaining popularity for treatment of distal tibial fractures due to short operative time and minimum surgical trauma to soft tissues. Distal tibial fractures are commonly associated with concurrent fibular fractures at, above or below the level of tibial fractures. So far there is no consensus for fixation of fibular fractures. Materials and Methods. Fractures of fibula at or below the level of fracture of tibia were taken into consideration. Fractures of fibula above the tibial level were excluded because they do not add to stability of fracture fixation. Retrospective study was done and distal tibia-fibula fractures were separated into 2 groups based on whether fibula was fixed or not. Measures of angulation were obtained from radiographs taken immediately after the surgery, a second time 3 months later, and at 6-month follow-up. Results. 35 fracture of distal tibia and fibula were included in study. Fibula was not fixed in 21 cases while 14 fibular fixations were carried out either using short plates(8) or intramedullary pins(6). No significant differences were observed for malalignment in fracture of fibula at the level of tibial fractures. However for fractures of fibula at a level lower than its tibial counterpart, fixation of fibula significantly reduced malalignment. Conclusion. Fixation of fibula has a definite role in reducing malunion in cases where fibula was fractured below the level of tibial fracture. Fixation of fibula may increase overall stability of fixation of tibia and reduce malunion

Aim. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the results of Expert tibial nailing for distal tibial fractures. Methods. All patients who had a distal third or distal end fracture of the tibia treated with the Expert tibial nail over a three year period at our institution were included in the study. A total of 44 distal tibial fractures in the same number of patients were treated with the nailing system. One patient died in the immediate post operative period from complications not directly related to the procedure and 3 were lost to follow up leaving a cohort of 40 patients for evaluation. 31 of the fractures were closed while the remaining 9 were open. The average age group of the cohort was 46.8 years with 26 males and 14 females. Results. All 40 patients were followed up to full radiological union of their tibia fractures. The average time to radiological union was 12.5 weeks for the closed fracture group and 15.1 weeks for the open fractures. The difference in time to union between the two groups was not statistically significant. There was infection around a distal locking screw in a closed fracture which settled with screw removal. Three patients in the closed fracture group required dynamisation to hasten union while none required dynamisation in the open fracture group. No bone grafting was performed on any of the patients. One patient had non union of a distal fibula fracture which required plating of as an additional procedure. On follow-up none of the patients reported knee pain or had limitation of ankle movements. Conclusion. The Expert tibial nail is an effective implant for the treatment of both open and closed distal tibial fractures with a low complication rate

Surgical treatment of distal tibia fractures is usually associated with extensive soft tissue compromise and high complication rates (infection, delayed or non-union, ankle stiffness and osteoarthritis). Wound infection is one of the most common complication (deep infection rates up to 15%) and can develop into an infected non-union. In 1973, Papineau described a staged technique for treating infected non-union of long bones, consisting of (1) surgical debridement of necrotic tissue, temporary splinting, specific antibiotic treatment, postoperative wet-to-dry wound dressing changes; (2) packing of the bone defect with cortico-cancellous autograft; (3) closure of the soft-tissue wound by a flap or secondary intent. The authors aim to report a clinical case of a successful treatment of a distal tibia infected non-union with the Papineau technique and negative-pressure wound therapy. Woman, 56 years-old, referred to Orthopaedic consultation on October 2013 for wound dehiscence and infection with a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, one month after open reduction and internal fixation of an open distal tibia fracture. On November 2013 she underwent surgical debridement, removal of osteosynthesis material, osteotaxis with external fixator, negative-pressure wound therapy and antibiotic treatment with intravenous vancomycin 1g 12/12h (1st stage of Papineau procedure). On December, she underwent autologous iliac crest cancellous bone grafting and wound care, daily irrigated with saline solution (2nd stage). On February 2014, she underwent a partial thickness skin graft for wound closure (3rd stage). On April, the external fixator was removed and there was still no evidence of union. She had pain, disuse osteoporosis, ankle and midfoot stiffness, and was sent to physical therapy. On April 2015, she can full weight bear with mild pain, the soft tissue envelope is in good condition, the fracture has united and she has an Ankle AOFAS Score of 83. The Papineau technique has been used for the management of infected non-unions with bony defects, with high success rates. Complete necrotic tissue debridement and targeted antibiotics are fundamental for obtaining a viable and healthy tissue, able to receive the bone graft. Negative-pressure wound therapy is important in reducing the bacterial load, improving the microcirculation and enhancing the granulation tissue. In the present case, the combination of the two techniques probably acted together in achieving successful eradication of the infection, reconstruction of the bone defect and soft tissue closure

The “Toddler Fracture” is an un-displaced oblique distal tibia fracture seen in children 9–36months of age presenting with refusal to walk, often after an unwitnessed or minor injury. Diagnosis is often made clinically, because initial x-rays are negative in up to 50% of patients, and then confirmed by the presence of periosteal reaction on follow up x-ray 7–10 days later. Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) has shown excellent ability to detect distal radius, clavicle and other extremity fractures and published case reports suggest that POCUS can also detect Toddler Fractures. The objective of this proof of concept study was to establish the feasibility and preliminary sensitivity and specificity of POCUS in the diagnosis of Toddler Fractures, and to characterize the POCUS findings in patients presenting with clinical Toddler Fractures. This was a prospective reviewer-blinded cross-sectional study of patients presenting to the emergency department of a paediatric tertiary care centre with presumed toddler fractures. All patients with suspected toddler fracture underwent lower limb x-ray. Those enrolled in the study also underwent POCUS of both lower extremities by a specialized provider. Treating clinicians were blinded to ultrasound results, and study sonographers were blinded to x-ray results. Study patients were then seen in paediatric orthopaedic follow up clinics 7–10 days later, and clinical assessment and follow up x-ray were performed as necessary to confirm diagnosis. Toddler Fracture was confirmed in 5 of 27 patients enrolled in the study. Preliminary results demonstrate that these POCUS findings were detected on the scan in all 5 confirmed toddler fractures. Three of these patients had an initial positive x-ray and 2 went on to have toddler fracture confirmed on follow up x-ray and orthopaedic assessment. POCUS findings consistent with a toddler fracture were found to be cortical disruption and periosteal hematoma. POCUS may be a useful adjunct to confirming a diagnosis of a toddler fracture when clinical suspicion is high and initial x-ray is negative. This pilot study provides positive impetus for further prospective study. The use of POCUS to confirm toddler fracture can decrease further radiation exposure to patients, allow early guidance to families on the management and expected recovery, and has potential to decrease burden on families and the healthcare system by potentially eliminating unnecessary follow-up appointments. Future study will help to better guide diagnostic and technical criteria, and provide guidance for appropriate medical education in this technique and interpretation

Unstable fractures of the distal tibia are being increasingly treated by open reduction and internal fixation using pre-contoured locking plates. Functional outcome following this type of fixation has not been reported previously. The aim of this study was to functionally assess patients following MIPO fixation of distal tibial fractures. Case notes of 26 patients treated at a single centre were reviewed. The fracture type, fixation technique, complications, time to union and subsequent treatment were documented. All patients returned for functional scoring using the validated American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) foot and ankle core score. Twenty-six consecutive patients were treated between 2002-2005. The majority were male, and 5 were open fractures. There were 13 AO type A, 4 type B and 9 type C fractures. Mean follow up was 20 months. Average time from injury to surgery was 2.5 days. All fractures were treated by a MIPO technique. A pre-contoured distal locking plate was used for the distal tibial reconstruction. Secondary surgical procedures e.g. 2nd look, delayed primary closure, or skin grafting were necessary in 3 cases. The fibula was plated in 60% of cases. Four patients developed wound infections requiring antibiotics, and all resolved. The commonest rehabilitation regime was 6 weeks non weight bearing in plaster. Mean time to union was 18 weeks. There were 3 cases of delayed union, requiring bone grafting. One patient required removal of the plate due to local irritation, and one required a broken screw to be removed. Mean range of movement was 10 degrees dorsiflexion, 30 plantarflexion. The mean normalised AAOS foot and ankle core score was 41 (SD +/− 8). We conclude that MIPO fixation of distal tibial fractures is a safe and effective method of treatment. Functional outcome does not significantly differ from that of the general population

Introduction. Open tibial fractures are associated with an increased risk of infection. The infection rate increases with increasing severity and grade of fracture. Various management options available for fracture treatment are in turn associated with complications including infection. Circular fine-wire fixators cause minimal intra-operative soft tissue disruption and possibly have a better outcome and low complication rates. Objectives. To analyse the effectiveness of circular fine-wire fixators in managing open tibial fractures and to determine the incidence of complications, particularly infection associated with use of these fixators. Methods. A retrospective review of 34 open tibial fractures treated with circular fine-wire fixators [Ilizarov and Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF)] in a teaching hospital. Results. We treated 34 patients (n=34) with fine-wire fixators. An Ilizarov frame was used for 19 (56%) and TSF was used for 16 (44%) patients. Mean patient age was 47.1 years. Seventy four percent had high energy while 26% had low energy injury. Consequently 4 (12%) had grade I, 3 (9%) had grade II, 6(17%) had grade IIIA and 21(62%) had grade IIIB injury as per the Gustilo-Anderson Classification. Forteen percent of patients had proximal, 17% had mid-shaft, 67% had distal tibial fractures respectively. Average time to union was 28.9 weeks. Grade IIIB fractures healed in 29.6 weeks. Fifty percent of these patients were full weight bearing immediately after surgery. 17 required soft tissue coverage and only two developed skin graft complications. Twelve (35%) had pin-site infection treated with antibiotics. There was one case of non-union and no reported mal-union or deep infections. Conclusion. We report fewer complications with the use of fine-wire fixators. The infection rate is low and only limited to superficial tissues. Healing time is considerably reduced and patients are full weight bearing almost immediately. These devices are particularly effective in management of grade IIIB open distal tibial fractures with decreased time to union of tibia

An interesting case with excellent accompanying images, highlighting the significance of tourniquets in controlling exsanguination, whilst also raising the issue of amputation versus reconstruction in severely injured limbs. A 39 year old male motorcyclist was BIBA to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore, following a head-on collision with a bus at high velocity. On arrival, he was assessed via ATLS guidelines; A- intubated, B- respiratory rate 32, C - heart rate 140bpm, blood-pressure 55/15 and D- GCS 7/15. Injuries included partial traumatic amputation of the right lower limb with clearly visible posterior femoral condyles, a heavily comminuted distal tibial fracture and almost complete avulsion of the skin and fat at the popliteal fossa. Obvious massive blood loss at the scene had been tempered by a passer-by who applied a beach towel as a makeshift tourniquet. CT Brain demonstrated extra-dural and subarachnoid haemorrhages with gross midline shift. Unfortunately, the neurosurgical team in Beaumont concluded that surgical intervention would be inappropriate. However, his kidneys had not sustained ATN and were made available for donation. Two vital surgical issues were featured in this case. Firstly, it highlighted the importance of tourniquets in controlling exsanguination in a trauma situation. 1. Secondly, it raised the critical issue of amputation versus reconstruction in severely injured limbs. 2,3. . Without prompt placement of a make-shift tourniquet by a passer-by, this patient would have almost certainly died at the scene of the accident. Two kidneys were successfully donated as a result. The importance of appropriate tourniquet use cannot be overstated. This case highlights its potential life or limb-saving capabilities in emergency trauma situations. It also raises the critical issue of amputation versus reconstruction in acute emergency situations

Aims

The timing of when to remove a circular frame is crucial; early removal results in refracture or deformity, while late removal increases the patient morbidity and delay in return to work. This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of a staged reloading protocol. We report the incidence of mechanical failure following both single-stage and two stage reloading protocols and analyze the associated risk factors.

Purpose of the study:. Is circular external fixation a safe and effective method of managing closed distal third tibia fractures. These fractures are conventionally treated with plaster casts, intramedullary nails or plate fixation. These treatment modalities have complication rates in the literature of up to 16% malunion, 12% non-union, and 17% deep infections. Description and Methods:. Retrospective review of 18 patients with closed distal third tibia fractures, with or without extension into the ankle joint, treated with circular fixator systems and minimal percutaneous internal fixation of the intra-articular fragment if required. Patients were followed up for time to union, malunion incidence as well as incidence of pin tract and deep infection. Distal third fractures which were extra articular or with simple intra articular extension were included. (AO 43 A, B1, C1, C2 + AO 42 in distal third) Patients with pilon fractures (AO 43 B2, B3 and C3) were excluded. Summary of results:. The average time to union in these patients was 16 weeks (11–33 weeks). The non-union rate was 11.1% in comparison to 12% with conventional treatment. The malunion rate was 0% compared to 16% with conventional treatment. The incidence of pin tract infection was 16.6%, but no deep infections were noted, whilst conventional treatment shows deep infection in up to 17%. Conclusion:. Circular external fixation is a safe and efficient option in the treatment of distal tibia fractures. The incidence of complications is significantly reduced in comparison to conventional treatment

Introduction. The optimal treatment of high-energy tibia fractures remains controversial. The role of external fixators has been shown to be crucial. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of using either Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) or Ilizarov frames in treatment of high-energy tibia fractures in a tertiary trauma referral centre. Methodology. Retrospective review of consecutive series identified two treatment groups; Group 1(TSF) and Group 2 (Ilizarov). Time in frame (healing time) was defined as time from insertion to removal of frame. All patients with incomplete data secondary to loss to follow-up or death were eliminated. Results. Data was available for 112 patients (Group 1 N37 and Group 2 N85) with average ages for of 46.43 and 44.64 years respectively and a male to female ratio of 23:14 and 63:22. 7 open tibial fractures and 24 distal tibia fractures were treated in Group 1 with 18 open tibia fractures and 24 pilon fractures in Group 2. Average healing time was 174.35 (124–340) and 176.41 (102–555) days respectively. Smoker's average healing time was 181.86 and 213.86 days per group. Non-smokers average healing time was 161.86 and 174 days for the two groups. N5 and N26 patients were recorded as high-energy injuries with associated other multiple fractures or visceral injuries with average frame times of 192.2 and 194.69 days respectively. All fractures went to union with only one infection in the Ilizarov group. Conclusion. Smoking and associated high-energy injuries lead to an increase in healing time for both groups. Despite the rigid nature of TSF, healing time is similar to Ilizarov frame

Percutaneous plating of the distal tibia via a limited incision is an accepted technique of osteosynthesis for extra-articular and simple intra-articular distal tibia fractures. In this study we identify structures are risk during this approach. Method. Thirteen unpaired adult lower limbs were used for this study. Thirteen, 16-hole synthes®LCP anterolateral distal tibial plates were percutaneously inserted according to the manufacturer instructions and confirmed by xray. Dissection was performed around the plate to examine the relation of nerves and soft tissue. Results. The neurovascular bundle was under the plate in one case. Over the horizontal limb of the plate, typically the superficial peroneal nerve had a variable course over all four screw holes. The anterior tibial artery coursed over hole number 3 and the Extensor hallucis longistendon was positioned over hole 3 or 4. The Anterior tibialis tendon skirted hole 4 in 12 cases. Over the vertical limb of the plate, the neurovascular bundle coursed over holes, 5 to 7, the superficial peroneal nerve over holes 5 to 7. Discussion. Meticulous attention is required when placing an anterolateral distal tibia plate using a MIPO technique. We recommend a larger initial incision to avoid entanglement of the superficial peroneal nerve under the plate. Over the anterior aspect of the tibia, an open technique with adequate neurovascular structure and tendon protection is necessary due to the variability of structure coursing over the plate. A bridging technique for placement of proximal locking screw should be made through a mini open incision and this is safe to do so proximally over holes 12 to 16. Caution is advised during placement of screws percutaneously from holes 1 to 12 however the neurovascular bundle courses commonly over holes 5 to 7. These landmarks also apply to the use of shorter anterolateral distal tibial plates

Introduction. Open tibial fractures are associated with increased risk of complications, particularly a higher risk of infections and decreased functional outcome. Objectives. To evaluate the incidence of complications and the functional outcomes after managing open tibial fractures with circular fine-wire fixators. Methods. Retrospective review of 35 open tibial fractures treated with circular fine-wire fixators {Ilizarov and Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF)} in a teaching hospital. Patients were reviewed with x rays and clinical outcomes measured using Iowa Knee Score questionnaire, Olerud-Molander Ankle Scores (OMAS), Ankle Evaluation Score and Euroqol EQ-5D descriptive system (generic health questionnaire). Results. Ilizarov frame was used for 19 (56%) and TSF was used for 16 (44%) patients. Mean patient age was 47.1 years. 74% had high energy while 26% had low energy injury. 4 patients (12%) had grade I, 3 (9%) had grade II, 27 (79%) patients had grade III injury as per Gustilo & Anderson Classification. 14% patients had proximal, 17% had mid-shaft, 67% had distal tibial fractures respectively. Average time to union was 28.9 weeks. 12 (35%) had pin-track infection treated with antibiotics. Grade IIIB fractures healed in 29.6 weeks. 17 required soft tissue coverage and only two developed skin graft complications. There was no case of deep infection & mal-union and one patient had non-union. Patients had good satisfaction scores (EQ-5D descriptive system) following surgery (mean = 0.751). The mean Iowa Knee Evaluation score, OMAS and Ankle Evaluation score was 87.32, 73.48 and 74 respectively (maximum being 100). The ankle range of movement was similar in operated and contra lateral normal ankles. Conclusions. We report fewer complications with no incidence of deep infection rates and infection only limited to superficial tissues. Healing time is considerably reduced and there are high satisfaction rates with good functional outcomes

Fractures of distal tibia are common and often present with dilemma of appropriate and safe management. The use of locking plates has changed the way these fractures have been managed as it avoids extensive soft tissue dissection and periosteal stripping. The aims of this study were to look at the results of stabilization and analyse the complications of fractures of distal tibia treated with Locked plates. We carried out a retrospective study of patients who underwent surgical treatment for distal tibial fractures using MIPO (Minimally invasive Percutaneous Osteosynthesis) technique. The data was gathered from theatre data base. We studied a period between Nov 2006 to May 2009. We collected patient demographics as well as the type of fractures, mechanism of injury, radiological union and associated complications. There were no open fractures in the study. The limb was splinted for two weeks after surgery in a back slab. The patients were followed up at 6 weeks, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after surgery. There were 45 patients in the study with 29 males & 16 females between ages of 20 – 87 (avg. 49 yrs). 24 patients sustained injury due to a fall, 12 were involved in RTA and the remaining 9 were sports related injuries. The mean time to surgery was 3.15 days (1 – 7) and surgery was carried either by the consultant or their direct supervision. The mean hospital stay was 7 days (2 – 35) and mean time to radiological evidence of callus was 9 weeks. All patients eventually returned to their preinjury employment. 76% showed radiological union at 6 months and 90% at 9 months. There were 3 superficial wound infections, 2 deep infections whilst 2 needed bone grafting and 1 implant failure. 2 patients developed mild form of CRPS which resolved at 12 months. 11 patients had metal discomfort of which 9 had removal of hardware. All these patients had the tip snapped off. MIPO with LCP is a reliable and reproducible technique in treatment of closed unstable fracture of distal tibia. Patients must be counselled about implant removal after fracture union. Avoid snapping the tip of the LCP