Pilon fractures of the distal tibia

Pilon fractures are relatively rare fractures of the distal metaphysis of the tibia resulting from axial and/or rotational forces. They involve varying degrees of metaphyseal disruption, articular damage, and malleolar displacement. When severe, these injuries represent a tremendous challenge to the...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inOrthopaedic review Vol. 22; no. 9; p. 987
Main Authors Ruwe, P A, Randall, R L, Baumgaertner, M R
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.09.1993
Subjects
Ankle Injuries - classification
Ankle Injuries - diagnosis
Ankle Injuries - etiology
Ankle Injuries - surgery
Arthrodesis
Bone Lengthening
Bone Transplantation
External Fixators
Fracture Fixation - instrumentation
Fracture Fixation - methods
Humans
Internal Fixators
Postoperative Complications
Preoperative Care
Tibial Fractures - classification
Tibial Fractures - diagnosis
Tibial Fractures - etiology
Tibial Fractures - surgery
Time Factors
Traction
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Summary:Pilon fractures are relatively rare fractures of the distal metaphysis of the tibia resulting from axial and/or rotational forces. They involve varying degrees of metaphyseal disruption, articular damage, and malleolar displacement. When severe, these injuries represent a tremendous challenge to the orthopaedic trauma surgeon. Traditional treatment of high-grade pilon fractures by closed means has led to unsatisfactory results. Open reduction and internal fixation in accordance with AO/ASIF principles has greatly improved the outcome in these often disabling fractures. Surgical technique involves anatomic restoration of fibular length, reconstruction of the plafond, bond grafting of the metaphyseal defect, and buttress plating of the medial tibia. Thorough preoperative planning and meticulous surgical technique produce predictably good results in the majority of cases.
ISSN:0094-6591