Distal Tibia Fractures: is the Tibia First Technique a Rational Approach?

@#Introduction: In this retrospective case-series study we discuss the clinical and radiographic outcomes obtained following the “tibia-first concept” in the treatment of distal tibia fractures, both in patients with fibular comminution and in cases with a simple fibula fracture. Materials and methods: We analysed a consecutive series of 64 patients who presented at our emergency department with a distal articular tibial and fibular fracture from January 2015 to September 2020. A total of 22 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the study. Clinical and radiographic examination were performed at each follow-up. To quantify pain and functional disability, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society’s anklehindfoot scale (AOFAS) were applied. Results: The overall mean age was 52.8 years, and the mean follow-up was 13.18 months. Multiple scales data from the FAOS were as follows: pain score 80.70; symptoms score 81.69; activities of daily living score 87.22; quality of life 76.05. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 74.36. Conclusions: Even though the principles of Rüedi and Allgöwer are still valid, in specific circumstances, the tibiafirst concept could be considered as a valid option for the treatment of these demanding fractures. If a good reduction is obtained intra-operatively by ligamentotaxis, we recommend fixing the tibia first, avoiding surgical stress on tissues derived from a previous fibular fixation.

A Comparison of Functional Outcome of Intra Articular Distal Tibial Pilon Fracture Treated by One Stage vs Two Stage Surgically

Introduction: The study was conducted to evaluate clinical and functional outcomes of comminuted pilon of distal tibial fractures after surgical management and fixation by modalities available ranging from temporary external fixation, simple distal tibial plates to moderate plating system and intra medullary nails for fibula. Methodology: Total 24 cases with intraarticular distal tibial pilon fracture were randomly divided in to two group. One group was managed by one stage procedure and second group was operated by two stage procedure. Results: From this study we infer that patient who had undergone one stage procedure had shorter hospital stay. In present study we observed that arthrosis, superficial infection and arthritis was higher in two stage procedure. Assessed by Ovadia Beals Evaluation Score - Objective Evaluation as well as subjective evaluation. Furthermore, the rate of complications was also identical. However, functional outcome assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score revealed that the patients underwent one stage procedure had better functional outcome. Conclusion: Considering the better functional outcome and the shorter hospital stay, we preferred using one stage operative procedure in better skin condition, less soft tissue damage, closed fracture of type b and C AO/OTA Pilon fractures.

Analysis of the efficacy of a modified posteromedial approach for Klammer III posterior Pilon fractures / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

PURPOSE@#To analyze the curative effect and technical points of a modified posteromedial approach in the treatment of Klammer III posterior Pilon fracture.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis of patients with Klammer III posterior Pilon fractures were conducted in our department from January 2018 to December 2019. Before the surgery, the patients were fully relieved of swelling and pain, and a comprehensive examination was carried out. The posteromedial approach exposed the posterior and medial fracture block of the distal tibia. According to the fracture of external malleolus, it is determined whether to combine a lateral incision and protect tendons and vascular nerves by a retractor, and then perform a fracture reduction and internal fixation. Postoperatively, the patients were treated with analgesia, detumescence, anticoagulation and rehabilitation exercise. The American orthopaedic foot and ankle society (AOFAS) score and visual analogue score were recorded at regular follow-up after surgery. A t-test was used for the comparison of the preoperative and final AOFAS score.@*RESULTS@#There were 7 male and 13 female (n = 20) included in the study, aged 22 to 88 years (average age 54.2 years). The injury mechanisms were falling from a height (n = 7), traffic accident (n = 6), walking injury (n = 2) and heavy injury (n = 5). The postoperative follow-up duration was 12-24 months (mean 16.95 months). The AOFAS score of the 20 patients before and after surgery were compared. The preoperative AOFAS score was 38.90 ± 3.91, and the final AOFAS score was 80.55 ± 4.20, (p < 0.001). The mean final visual analogue scores at rest, active and weight-bearing walking were 0.30, 0.85 and 1.70, respectively. One patient reported poor postoperative wound healing and required a return to hospital for debridement and anti-infection treatment.@*CONCLUSION@#In the treatment of Klammer III posterior Pilon fractures, the modified posteromedial approach can fully expose the fracture block and the collapsed articular surface of the medial malleolus, achieve good reduction and internal fixation with limited injury of the tendon and vascular nerves, and have a better prognosis.

Clinical results of modified medial approach in the treatment of Pilon fracture with medial column compression / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the clinical results of modified medial incision in the treatment o f Pilon fracture with medial column compression and evaluate its safety.@*METHODS@#Thirty-one patients of Pilon fracture with medial column compressiom accepted surgical treatments in the Department of Foot and Ankle at Honghui Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University from January 2015 to January 2019. According to the imaging data at admission, 31 cases were diagnosed as closed Pilon fractures, and both preoperative X-ray and 3D CT scan were shown as medial column compressive fractures. All patients underwent modified medial incision with complete data, including 23 males and 8 females;ranging in age from 22 to 65 years old, with an average of (39.5±16.2) years old. All patients underwent modified medial approach combined with other approaches to expose the broken end of fracture. The time from trauma to operation ranging from 7 to 20 days, with a mean of(9.5±5.5) days. The incision and fracture healing were followed up regularly after operation.@*RESULTS@#All patients were followed up with an average of(15.7±5.5) months(ranged, 13 to 25 months). Preoperative and postoperative routine X-ray and 3D CT examination showed anatomical reduction in 8 cases, and the anatomical reduction rate was 25.81%. Up to the latest follow-up, all 31 fractures had achieved bone healing, and the healing time ranged from 11 to 22 weeks, with a mean of (14.3±4.7) weeks. At the latest follow-up, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle and hindfoot scores ranged from 75 to 89, with a mean of 80.5±4.9, 24 patients got a good result, 7 fair.@*CONCLUSION@#The improved medial approach for Pilon fracture can directly expose the posterior medial, medial and anterior medial of the distal tibia. After reduction under direct vision, the medial compressed and collapsed articular surface are fixed. The clinical curative effect is satisfactory and the wound complications are less. It is recommended for Pilon fracture where compression of the medial articular surface is predominant.

Stability of Fixation for AO-C2 Pilon Fracture with Horseshoe Ring External Fixator under Axial Loading / 医用生物力学

Objective The traditional circular external fixation structure was redesigned to make it more suitable for intraarticular Pilon fracture fixation. The stability of the horseshoe annular external fixator was verified by analyzing fracture displacement of the Pilon bone after fixation with the external fixator under loading.MethodsAO-C2 Pilon fracture model was prepared by pendulum saw according to predetermined osteotomy line, and then fixed by horseshoe ring external fixator. The fixed ankle model was subjected to axial loading on mechanical test machine. The axial force loading mode was from 0 N to 150 N, 300 N and 450 N successively. The displacement changes of fracture blocks in X (left-right), Y (up-down) and Z (anterior-posterior) axis during axial loading were recorded by dynamic capture instrument.ResultsThe overall left-right, up-down and anterior-posterior displacement of the fibula ranged from 0.32 mm to 0.70 mm, -0.27 mm to -0.23 mm and 0.23mm to 0.32 mm, and the maximum difference was 0.09 mm. The overall left-right, up-down and anterior-posterior displacement of medial malleolus fracture in the tibia range from 0.02 mm to 0.14 mm, -0.80 mm to -0.19 mm and -0.78 mm to -0.13mm.The overall left-right, up-down and anterior-posterior displacement of lateral malleolus fracture in the tibia ranged from -0.07 mm to 0.05 mm, -0.36 mm to -0.03 mm, 0.27 mm to 0.47 mm.ConclusionsThe horseshoe ring external fixator can not only stabilize the fracture end, but also produce micromotion which is beneficial to fracture healing, which accords with biomechanical characteristics of fracture healing. The external fixator structure is simple, suitable for the treatment of Pilon fracture, and worthy of popularization and application.

Deep femoral artery third perforating flap for repair tissue defected of arrounding Pilon fracture in I stage / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of free deep femoral artery third perforating flap repaired soft tissue loss after Pilon fracture surgery in I stage.Methods:Fifteen patients were treated from April, 2013 to January, 2020. Miller AO classification: 8 cases 43-C1, 4 cases 43-C2 and 3 cases 43-C3. All cases were accompanied with severe soft tissue contusion and skin necrosis. After fracture reduction, soft tissue defects, internal fixation exposure and tendon exposure around the wound. Free deep femoral artery third perforating flap (3.5 cm ×15.5 cm to 5.5 cm×12.5 cm) for the repair of soft tissue defects around ankle in the I stage, the blood vessels of the flap were end-to-side anastomosed with vessels of the posterior tibial or anterior tibial. Regular follow-up after surgery.Results:One case of venous crisis occurred, other 14 cases survived, were followed-up from 5 to 18 months, the ankle joint function was good, did not affect the foot shoes, with excellent color and texture, the flap restored protective sensation, and leaving only linear scar, no muscle adhesion.Conclusion:Free deep femoral artery third perforating flap repaired soft tissue loss of surgical incision after fracture operated than significantly reduce the postoperative fracture infection and protect the blood supply around the fracture. It is an effective method of repair.

Meta-plate and mini-plate internal fixation for the treatment of anterior comminuted coronal plane Pilon fractures / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Pilon fractures usually happened during severe injury, associated with compression and comminution of metaphysis and soft tissue injury and primary articular cartilage damage in varying degrees The treatment is difficult and the prognosis is relatively poor. OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical effect of application of meta-plate and mini-plate internal fixation for the treatment of anterior comminuted coronal plane Pilon fractures. METHODS: From January 2013 to June 2017, 17 patients of closed anterior comminuted coronal plane Pilon fractures were admitted in Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University. There were 7 males and 10 females, aged from 24 to 62 years, with an average age of 41.3 years. All patients signed the informed consent. This study was approved by the Hospital Ethics Committee. Preoperative CT scans and three-dimensional reconstruction confirmed that the main fracture line was in coronal plane and multiple fragments of distal tibial metaphysis were displaced obviously. According to Ruedi-Allgower classification, there were 3 cases of type and 14 cases of type III. Fracture fragments of articular surface were fixed with transverse metacarpophalangeal mini-plate and screws, and the distal tibial coronal fractures were fixed with anterior meta-plate. The ankle and hind foot score of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society was used to evaluate the function after surgery. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The 17 patients were followed up for 12 to 28 months. All incisions healed in the first stage without complications such as wound infection, skin necrosis, failure of internal fixation and neurovascular injury. Only one patient had redness on the edge of the incision after operation and healed after swelling reduction and dressing change. (2) Fractures healed within 3 to 6 months without delayed union or nonunion. (3) At the last follow-up, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle and hind foot score was excellent in 10 cases, good in 5 cases, and average in 2 cases. The excellent and good rate was 88%. (4) The application of transverse mini-plate and screws fixation can effectively support and fix the fracture fragments of articular surface. Combined with anterior meta-plate of distal tibia for the treatment of anterior comminuted coronal plane Pilon fractures can achieve good therapeutic effect, and strengthen biomechanical stability.

Three-dimensional printing combined with virtual surgical design in the treatment of complex pilon fractures / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Pilon fractures are mainly vertical compression violence involving the tibia distal articular surface fracture, especially the high-energy damage Pilon fracture. Pilion fracture is characterized by obvious fracture displacement, different levels of compression, crushing at stem epiphyseal end, unstable height, primary articular cartilage injury and uneven joint surface. Because it is difficult to treat, and holds various complications and high morbidity, it becomes a challenge in the field of orthopedics. Good preoperative planning and design can reduce the occurrence of complications and obtain good clinical treatment outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical effect of three-dimensional printing technology combined with virtual surgery design in the treatment of complex Pilon fractures. METHODS: Eighty-eight patients with complex Pilon fracture at Yulin Orthopedics Hospital of Chinese and Western Medicine from August 2017 to November 2018 were selected and divided into two groups (three-dimensional printing group, n=38; control group, n=50). The three-dimensional printing group was treated with three-dimensional printing technology combined with virtual surgery design, and the control group was treated with conventional surgery. The operation time, blood loss, incision length, one-time successful placement rate, postoperative ankle function recovery and healing were recorded. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The three-dimensional printing group was superior to the control group in terms of operation time, blood loss, incision length, one-time successful placement rate, reduction satisfaction (Burwell-Charnley fracture reduction radiology evaluation), functional recovery degree (Mazur ankle joint score) after 12-month follow-up and wound healing (P < 0.05). (2) To conclude, compared with conventional surgery, three-dimensional printing combined with virtual surgery design for treating complex Pilon fractures can shorten the operation time, reduce surgical trauma and blood loss, and achieve satisfactory fracture reduction and functional recovery.

Surgical Management of Distal Tibia Fracture: Towards An Outcome-based Treatment Algorithm

@#Introduction: Distal tibia fractures are frequently associated with an extensive soft tissue injury which then leads to a higher risk of complications such as infection, non-union and eventually poor overall outcome. The purpose of this study is to measure the outcome of distal tibia fractures treated with internal fixation, external fixator or Ilizarov external fixator(IEF). We aim to propose an algorithm for management of distal tibia fractures by evaluating the treatment options, outcomes and risk factors present. Material and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study of all distal tibia fractures treated surgically in Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital, Klang from 1st January 2016 till 30th June 2018. Patient records were reviewed to analyse the outcomes of surgical treatment and risk factors associated with it. Results: Ninety-one patients were included with a mean age of 41.5 years (SD = 16.4). Thirty-nine cases (42.9%) were open fractures. Thirty-eight patients (41.8%) were treated with internal fixation, 27 patients (29.7%) were treated with IEF and 26 patients (28.6%) were treated with an external fixator. Among open fractures cases, no significant finding can be concluded when comparing each surgical option and its outcome, although one option was seen better than the other in a particular outcome. Initial skeletal traction or temporary spanning external fixator in close fractures reduced the risk of mal-alignment (p value=0.001). Internal fixation is seen superior to IEF and external fixator in close fractures in term of articular surface reduction (p value = 0.043) and risk of mal-alignment (p value = 0.007). Conclusion: There is no single method of fixation that is ideal for all pilon fractures and suitable for all patients. This proposed algorithm can help surgeons in deciding treatment strategies in the challenging management of distal tibia fractures to reduce associated complications.

Open reduction and osteotomy for old pilon fracture / 中华创伤杂志

Objective@#To investigate the efficacy of open reduction and osteotomy combined with internal fixation to reconstruct the distal tibial articular surface in the treatment of old pilon fracture.@*Methods@#A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 20 patients with old pilon fracture admitted to Zhengzhou Orthopaedic Hospital from July 2014 to February 2018. There were 14 males and six females, aged 21-45 years, with an average of 31.5 years. According to AO classification, there were four patients with C1 type, seven with C2 type and nine with C3 type, all of which were closed fractures. Eleven patients received non-operative treatment while nine patients underwent surgeries. After the surgery, malunion was seen in eight patients, and incomplete union in 12 patients. There were eight patients with posterior articular surface collapse of distal tibia, seven patients with anterior articular surface collapse of distal tibia, three patients with varus deformity and two patients with valgus deformity. All patients were treated with open reduction and osteotomy with internal fixation to reconstruct the articular surface of distal tibia. The time of fracture healing was recorded, and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), ankle flexion and extension range of motion, and AOFAS ankle-hind foot function score were compared before and at the last follow-up. The complications were recorded.@*Results@#All patients were followed up for 7-36 months, with an average of 26.4 months. Fracture healing time was 3-7 months, with an average of 4.1 months. At the last follow-up, VAS, ankle metatarsal flexion, dorsal extension and AOFAS scores were significantly improved compared with those before operation [(1.9±1.0)points vs. (6.6±1.4)points, (31.6±2.4)° vs. (18.5±4.4)°, (25.7±2.7)° vs. (15.6±2.7)°, (79.6±7.3)points vs. (42.6±5.6)points] (P<0.05). One patient developed severe ankle traumatic arthritis 7 months after operation and underwent fusion of ankle joint.@*Conclusion@#For old pilon fracture, open reduction and osteotomy to reconstruct the distal tibial articular surface can effectively relieve pain, improve joint mobility and restore ankle function.

Open reduction and osteotomy for old pilon fracture / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To investigate the efficacy of open reduction and osteotomy combined with internal fixation to reconstruct the distal tibial articular surface in the treatment of old pilon fracture.Methods A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 20 patients with old pilon fracture admitted to Zhengzhou Orthopaedic Hospital from July 2014 to February 2018.There were 14 males and six females,aged 21-45 years,with an average of 31.5 years.According to AO classification,there were four patients with C1 type,seven with C2 type and nine with C3 type,all of which were closed fractures.Eleven patients received non-operative treatment while nine patients underwent surgeries.After the surgery,malunion was seen in eight patients,and incomplete union in 12 patients.There were eight patients with posterior articular surface collapse of distal tibia,seven patients with anterior articular surface collapse of distal tibia,three patients with varus deformity and two patients with valgus deformity.All patients were treated with open reduction and osteotomy with internal fixation to reconstruct the articular surface of distal tibia.The time of fracture healing was recorded,and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS),ankle flexion and extension range of motion,and AOFAS ankle-hind foot function score were compared before and at the last follow-up.The complications were recorded.Results All patients were followed up for 7-36 months,with an average of 26.4 months.Fracture healing time was 3-7 months,with an average of 4.1 months.At the last follow-up,VAS,ankle metatarsal flexion,dorsal extension and AOFAS scores were significantly improved compared with those before operation [(1.9 ± 1.0)points vs.(6.6 ± 1.4)points,(31.6 ±2.4)° vs.(18.5 ±4.4)°,(25.7 ±2.7)° vs.(15.6 ±2.7)°,(79.6±7.3)points vs.(42.6 ±5.6)points] (P＜0.05).One patient developed severe ankle traumatic arthritis 7 months after operation and underwent fusion of ankle joint.Conclusion For old pilon fracture,open reduction and osteotomy to reconstruct the distal tibial articular surface can effectively relieve pain,improve joint mobility and restore ankle function.

3D printing used to assist treatment of pilon fracture combined with ipsilateral tibial shaft fracture / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective To investigate the efficacy of three-dimensional (3D) printing used to assist the treatment of pilon fracture combined with ipsilateral tibial shaft fracture.Methods From May to July 2016,3 patients with pilon fracture combined with ipsilateral tibial shaft fracture were treated at Department of Traumatic Orthopedics,The Second Affiliated Hospital,University of South China.They were all male,aged from 26 to 47 years.They all had preoperative 3D CT scan.Their CT data were imported to Mimics software for 3D reconstruction.After their fracture 3D models were manufactured by 3D printing,precise patient-specific surgical plans were made to guide their actual operations.Postoperatively,Johner-Wruhs scores were used to evaluate the treatment of tibial shaft fracture,Burwell-Charnley scores to evaluate the treatment of pilon fracture and Tornetta scores to evaluate the therapeutic outcomes.Results All the operations were performed according to the patient-specific surgical plans designed preoperatively.All the fractures achieved bony union without any infection,exposure of bone or internal fixation,osteofascial compartment syndrome or neurovascular injury.The outcomes of tibial shaft fracture were excellent by Johner-Wruhs scoring,anatomic reduction was achieved for pilon fractures by Burwell-Charnley scoring and the therapeutic outcomes were excellent by Tornetta scoring.Conclusion In the treatment of pilon fracture combined with ipsilateral tibial shaft fracture,3D printing can help making of precise and patient-specific surgical plans to promote clinical efficacy.

Comparison of clinical effect between bridge locking anatomical plate with supported plate based four column in type III Rüedi-Allgower Pilon fracture / 解剖学报

Objective: To explore the clinical effect between bridge locking anatomical plate with supported plate based four column in type III Riiedi-Allgower Pilon fracture. Methods: Retrospective study was performed on the clinical data of type III Riiedi-Allgower Pilon fracture undergoing surgery. Patients were divided into two groups according to internal fixation. Some parameters including operation time, blood loss, and drainage, healing time, full burden time, functional score and pain score were analyzed. Results: There was no significant difference between the operation time, blood loss and drainage between the two groups(t = 0. 37, P>0. 05;t = 0. 71, P>0. 05;t = 0. 24,/>>0.05). The healing time and full burden time of experimental group was lower than control group significantly ((=1.56, P<0. 05;i = 2.43, P<0.05). For American Orthopaedic Food and Ankle Society(AOFAS) score and visual analogue score(VAS) in postoperative 1 month, there was no significant difference between the two groups. For AOFAS score and VAS score in experimental group was lower than control group after 3 months (P<0. 05). There was no significant difference between two groups in reduction quality Burwell-Charnley score and complication between two groups. Conclusion Supported plate based four column could improve the life quality of patietns with Pilon fracture, which is worth to recommed in clinical application.

Modified staging strategy in treatment of type C3 Pilon fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of modified staging strategy in treatment of type C3 Pilon fractures. Methods: The clinical data of 23 patients with type C3 Pilon fractures treated with modified staging strategy between January 2012 and January 2018 was retrospectively analyzed. There were 14 males and 9 females with an average age of 47.9 years (range, 22-61 years). Twenty-three cases were high-energy injuries, including 11 cases of traffic accidents and 12 cases of falling from height. One case was an open fracture of Gustilo type ⅢA with no obvious sign of infection on the wound after early treatment. The remaining patients were closed fractures. The time from injury to admission was 3-40 hours with an average of 16.4 hours. The preoperative pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score was 7.22±1.17 and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 0. The flexion and plantar flexion activities of ankle joint were (1.13±0.26) and (4.79±0.93)°, respectively. Twenty-two patients had a tibiofibular fracture. In the first-stage operation, the posterior approach was used to reduce the posterior column fracture and the external stent was temporarily assisted. After the soft tissue crisis was removed, the final fracture reduction and internal fixation was performed through the anterior approach in the second-stage operation. Results: All 23 patients were followed up 12-84 months with an average of 26.6 months. The waiting time before the first-stage operation was 4-47 hours with an average of 23.4 hours. The interval between the two stage operations was 6-11 days with an average of 7.9 days. The first-stage operation time was 60-90 minutes with an average of 67.8 minutes; the second-stage operation time was 110-160 minutes with an average of 124.1 minutes. The hospital stay was 15-28 days with an average of 23.5 days. One patient (4.35%) had a tourniquet paralysis symptom after the second-stage operation, and two patients (8.7%) had delayed anterior incision healing. The other patients had incision healing without early complications. The radiographic review showed that the quality of articular surface reduction was excellent in 19 cases, good in 2 cases, and poor in 2 cases, with an excellent and good rate of 91.3%. At last follow-up, the fractures healed with no bone nonunion and malunion; the different degrees of osteoarthritis occurred in 7 cases. At last follow-up, the VAS score was 0.89 ±0.88 and the AOFAS score was 81.3±7.8. The flexion and plantar flexion activities of ankle joint were (10.23±5.05) and (20.97±3.92)°, respectively, and the differences between pre- and post-operation were significant ( P<0.05). Conclusion: The midified staging strategy can not only provide a template for articular surface reduction for the second-stage anterior surgery, but also improve the quality of the reduction. It can also reduce the interval between the two operations and the operation time of the second-stage operation through the first-stage posterior fascial decompression, and can obtain satisfactory effectiveness.

Result of Staged Operation in Ruedi-Allgower Type II and III Open Tibia Pilon Fractures with Severe Comminution / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: This study analyzed the clinical and radiological results of Reudi-Allgower type II and III open tibia pilon fracture patients who underwent plate fixation after the recovery of a soft tissue injury after external fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 2010 to 2015, this study analyzed 14 patients who were treated for open tibial pilon fractures and could be followed up at least one year. The mean age was 49 years and the average follow-up period was 19 months. An emergency operation was performed for external fixation and open wounds, and secondary surgery was performed for definitive fixation using a plate. The radiological and clinical evaluations were analyzed retrospectively. Complications, such as post-traumatic osteoarthritis and wound infections were also analyzed. RESULTS: The mean duration between two-staged surgery was 21 days and the mean bone union time was 9.2 months. Three cases of delayed union and one case of nonunion were reported. The malunion did not occur in all cases. The average American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 68 points. A limitation of the ankle motion occurred in all cases. In four cases, wound infections due to initial open wounds occurred; one patient underwent a below the knee amputation due to chronic osteomyelitis. Post-traumatic arthritis occurred in 10 cases. CONCLUSION: Severe comminuted tibial plateau open fractures of Reudi-Allgower type II and III, which are high-energy injuries that result in extensive soft tissue damage, have a higher incidence of complications, such as ulcer problems and osteomyelitis, than closed tibia plateau fractures. Post-traumatic arthritis is the most common complication of tibia plateau open fractures, and staged surgery is recommended because of the relatively satisfactory clinical results.

Analysis of epidemiological characteristics of ankle fracture and curative effect of posterior Pilon fracture / 中国综合临床

Objective To summarize the epidemiological characteristics of ankle fractures and clinical outcome of open reduction and fixation for the treatment of posterior Pilon fracture with supporting plate. Methods From January 1st,2013 to December 31st,2016,the data of three hundred and twelve patients with ankle fracture in Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University were collected, and 21 cases of posterior Pilon fracture were treated with open reduction and fixation using supporting plate and were followed up,the ankle function was assessed by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle hindfoot scale. Results There were 312 patients with ankle fractures,180 males,132 females. The age distribution of patients was as follows:1. 28%,12. 82%,14. 42%,24. 04%,28. 53%,11. 54%,6. 09% and 1. 28% in the following age group:≥18 and≤20 years of age,>20 and ≤30 years of age,>30 and ≤40 years of age,40> and ≤50 years of age,>50 and≤60 years of age,>60 and ≤70 years of age,>70 and ≤80 years of age and >80years of age. Traffic accidents (49%),sprains(31%),falling injury (11%),heavy pound(6%) were the main causes of ankle fractures. In terms of fracture types,238 (76. 2%) cases with lateral malleolus,235 (75. 3%) cases with medial malleolus fractures,161 (51. 6%) cases with posterior malleolus,and 105 (33. 7%) cases with trimalleolar fracture,21 (6. 8%)cases with posterior Pilon fracture. 21 patients with posterior Pilon fracture were followed up for 13. 0 to 56. 0 months,with an average of (31. 7±12. 6) months. Postoperative incision infection occurred in 3 patients,of which 1 cases had mild external leakage,and all wounds healed after dressing change. No fracture and screw prolapse occurred in all follow-up patients. The average score of AOFAS was (87. 2± 7. 1) points,of which 9 cases were excellent,10 cases were good,and 2 cases were fair. Conclusion Patients with ankle fractures were more common in males aged 60 and below,while in patients above 60 years old,the majority patients were females. In addition,patients aged 40 to 60 years old accounts for more than half of the population and the most common age group were between 50 and 60 years old. Traffic accidents and sprains are the common causes. The incidence of different fracture types in descending order were as follows: lateral malleolus fractures, medial malleolus fractures,posterior malleolus fractures and trimalleolar fractures. Pilon fracture was a common type of ankle fracture. Clinical outcome of open reduction and fixation for the treatment of posterior Pilon fracture with supporting plate was satisfied.

The treatment of Tillaux bone block in the Ruedi-Allgower type Ⅲ Pilon fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To analyze the importance and effectiveness of Tillaux bone block in Ruedi-Allgower type Ⅲ of Pilon fracture surgery. Method: Twenty-one patients with Pilon fractures with Tillaux dislocation were treated between February 2010 and September 2013. There were 17 males and 4 females, aged from 28 to 68 years with an average age of 42.9 years. The causes of injury included falling from height in 13 cases, falls injury in 4 cases, crush injury in 2 cases, and sprained injury in 2 cases. X-ray film and CT examination showed that all 21 patients had fibula fracture and Tillaux bone block had obvious displacement. According to AO/OTA classification, there were 3 cases of type C1.2, 1 case of type C1.3, 10 cases of type C2, and 7 cases of type C3. The duration from injury to operation ranged from 4 to 31 days, with an average of 10 days. All cases of Pilon fracture were treated with open reduction and plate internal fixation. Steel plate or screw was used to fixation for Tillaux block; allograft bone graft was selected for compression of fracture. Results: There were 2 cases of skin necrosis at the corner of wound after operation, and the wound healed after corresponding treatment; the wound healed at first intention in the other 19 cases. The effect of surgical reduction was evaluated by Burwell-Chamley imaging scoring system within 72 hours after operation, there were 19 cases of anatomical reduction and 2 cases of general reduction. All the 21 patients were followed up 18-48 months, with an average of 24.9 months. No complication such as nerve injury, loosening of internal fixation, or periprosthetic fracture was found during follow-up. All fractures obtained bone healing, which lasted from 4 to 8 months, with an average of 6 months. The ankle and hindfoot scores of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) were used to evaluate the ankle and hindfoot function at 1 year after operation or at last follow-up, the results were excellent in 13 cases, good in 6 cases, and fair in 2 cases, with an excellent and good rate of 90.5%. Internal fixator was removed from 19 patients at 15-19 months after operation. There were 17 cases of joint hyperplasia and 4 cases of osteoarthritis. All joint mobility was restored. The functional recovery of the ankle joint was evaluated according to the Olerud-Molander ankle fracture score standard, the results were good in 6 cases, fair in 8 cases, and poor in 7 cases at postoperative full weight training; and after 1 year of full weight training, the results were excellent in 10 cases, good in 3 cases, fair in 6 cases, and poor in 2 cases. Conclusion: The Tillaux bone block is a reliable marker for the reduction of complex Pilon fractures. The reconstruction of the Tillaux can improve the effectiveness of complex Pilon fractures.

Effect of locking compression plate and anatomical plate internal fixation in treatment of closed tibial Pilon fracture and its influence on lower limb functional rehabilitation / 临床外科杂志

Objective To investigate the effect of locking compression plate(LCP)and anatomi-cal plate(AP)in the treatment of closed tibial Pilon fracture and its influence on lower limb functional re-habilitation.Methods A total of 82 patients with closed tibial Pilon fractures were randomly divided into LCP internal fixation group(LCP group,n=41)and AP internal fixation group(AP group,n=41).The perioperative indexes and the incidence of postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.The ankle function was evaluated by American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle Hindfoot Scale(AOFAS-AHS),the lower limb function was evaluated by Lysholm scale,the serum levels of inter-leukin-1β(IL-1β)and interleukin-6(IL-6)were detected.Results The intraoperative blood loss,opera-tion time,hospitalization time,first ground time,fracture healing time were(103. 34 ± 11. 34)ml, (47.65 ± 7.89)min,(9.01 ± 2.23)d,(5.31 ± 1.27)d,(16.23 ± 2.12)weeks in LCP group respective-ly,the AP group were(132.25 ± 34.41)ml,(60.54 ± 11.23)ml,(11.43 ± 2.57)d,(6.23 ± 1.56)d, (23.12 ± 3.31)weeks,respectively.The LCP group were significantly lower than AP group(P<0.05);The excellent rate of ankle function of LCP group was 95.12%,significantly higher than 82.93% in the AP group(P<0.05);The incidence of postoperative complications was 4.88% in the LCP group,which was significantly lower than 29.27% in the AP group(P<0.05);At 3,6 and 12 months after operation, the AOFAS-AHS scores in the LCP group were(69.52 ± 4.18)points,(78.89 ± 6.73)points and (87.23 ± 6.34)points respectively,the AP group were(65.09 ± 4.45)points,(70.13 ± 5.34)points and (76.69 ± 5.91)points respectively,the LCP group were significantly higher than AP group(P<0.05);At 3,6 and 12 months after operation,the Lysholm scores were(77.12 ± 6.43)points,(82.12 ± 7.81)points and(86.19 ± 8.11)points in LCP group,AP group were(67.25 ± 5.56)points,(72.21 ± 7.23)and (77.12 ± 7.54)points,the LCP group was significantly higher than AP group(P<0.05).At 3 d and 4 weeks after operation,the serum levels of IL-1β in LCP group were(0.37 ± 0.09)pg/ml,(0.19 ± 0.06) pg/ml,while in AP group were(0.45 ± 0.13)pg/ml,(0.27 ± 0.09)pg/ml;the serum levels of IL-6 in LCP group were(201.23 ± 30.12)ng/L,(102.23 ± 25.21)ng/L,while in AP group were(246.71 ± 41.23)ng/L,(158.95 ± 25.21)ng/L.The AP group were significantly lower than those in AP group(P<0.05).Conclusion LCP and AP in treatment of closed tibial Pilon fractures have a significant effect,but LCP can reduce the surgical trauma,shorten the operation time and postoperative recovery time,to a cer-tain extent,improve the ankle and lower limb function,and reduce the postoperative fixation fracture heal-ing and other complications.

The Result of Using an Additional Mini-Locking Plate for Tibial Pilon Fractures

PURPOSE: We evaluated the usefulness of an additional, 2.7 mm mini-locking plate for tibial pilon fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied 21 patients (14 males and 7 females), who were treated with a 2.7 mm mini-locking plate via the anterolateral approach for tibial pilon fractures between September 2012 and April 2014. The mean age was 43.85 years, and the mean follow-up period was 16.6 months. The radiologic outcomes were graded by the Burwell and Charnley modified system and clinical outcomes were evaluated by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hind foot score and visual analogue scale (VAS) score. RESULTS: The mean union period was 14.3 weeks. At the final follow-up, radiologic results showed 16 excellent results, 4 fair results, and 1 poor result. The average VAS was 3.4 points; the average AOFAS score was 81.8 points. During the follow-up period, there were three cases of posttraumatic osteoarthritis and one case of superficial skin infection. CONCLUSION: Additional anterolateral, 2.7 mm mini-locking plate may be a good treatment method to manage tibial pilon fractures.

Clinical research of damage control theory for the treatment of high-energy Pilon fracture / 中国综合临床

Objective To investigate the feasibility and clinical effect of damage control theory for patients with high?energy Pilon fracture?Methods Fifty?three cases patients with high?energy Pilon fracture were selected in the Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Foshan from March 2013 to June 2014 as observation group ( DCO group ) , 46 cases of non?DCO guidance high?energy Pilon fracture as the control group?Intraoperative blood loss,operative time,hospital stay,complications,fractures and function were compared between two groups?Results After the treatments,the intraoperative blood loss,operative time in the DCO group were significantly better than those in the non?DCO group((88?79±4?96) ml vs?(117?74±6?74) ml,(67?44 ±4?75) min vs?(81?43±3?66) min),theses differences were statistically significant between the two groups(t=3?720,5?601,P<0?05)?The complications in the DCO group were significantly less than those in the non?DCO group(22?6%(12/53) vs?52?2%(24/46)),the difference was statistically significant between the two groups(χ2=5?013,P=0?014)?The excellent rate of in the DCO group were significantly better than those in the non?DCO group( 64?15%( 34/53) vs?41?30%( 19/46) ) ,the difference was statistically significant between the two groups (χ2 =6?097, P=0?000 )?Conclusion Reasonable application of the DCT can be quickly and effectively to save the patient's life and improve stability fracture,and reduce the incidence of complications?It is a safe and effective method.