Treatment of Klammer type Ⅲ posterior pilon fracture via the posterolateral combined posteromedial approach / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the therapeutic effects of internal fixation via the posterolateral combined posteromedial approach in the treatment of posterior pilon fracture (Klammer type Ⅲ).Methods:A retrospective study was performed to analyze the 69 posterior pilon fractures (Klammer type Ⅲ) which had been treated by internal fixation with hollow screws or a buttress plate at Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, Yantai Shan Hospital from January 2015 to January 2020. There were 36 males and 33 females with an age of (45.3±10.0) years and duration from injury to surgery of (6.0±1.5) d. They were assigned into 2 groups according to different surgical approaches. The observation group (41 cases) was treated through the posterolateral combined posteromedial approach while the control group (28 cases) through the posterolateral approach alone. The therapeutic effects were evaluated by comparing the 2 groups in terms of incision length, intraoperative bleeding, operation time, fracture union time, fracture reduction (evaluated by the Burrwell-Charnley radiological score), the ankle-hindfoot score of American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and complications.Results:There was no significant difference in the preoperative general data between the 2 groups, showing comparability ( P>0.05). All the 69 cases were followed up for (16.9±4.0) months, revealing primary healing of all the incisions and no vascular injury or wound infection. The incision length [(11.2±1.8) cm] and operation time [(76.0±6.6) min] in the observation group were significantly shorter than those in the control group [(12.4±1.9) cm and (79.7±6.8) min], the excellent and good rate of reduction in the observation group (97.6%, 40/41) was significantly higher than that in the control group (89.3%, 25/28), and the ankle-hindfoot scores of AOFAS at 1, 3 and 12 months after operation in the observation group [(78.4±5.6), (79.5±2.8) and (86.9±2.1)] were significantly higher than those in the control group [(75.2±5.5), (78.0±3.2) and (85.8±2.3)] (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the intraoperative bleeding between the 2 groups ( P>0.05). In the control group, 2 patients developed numbness in the dorsum of foot, which gradually disappeared after 3 months of treatment, but no other complications like persistent pain or flexor contracture within 1 year after operation. Conclusion:In the treatment of Klammer type Ⅲ posterior pilon fracture, the posterolateral combined posteromedial approach can result in satisfactory therapeutic effects, because the surgical approach can fully expose the fracture and facilitate better reduction.

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.

Comparison of posterolateral approach and combined approach in treatment of Mason type 2B posterior malleolar fracture / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the effectiveness between the posterolateral approach and the posterolateral combined posteromedial approaches in the treatment of Mason type 2B posterior malleolar fracture.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 79 patients with posterior ankle fracture who met the selection criteria between January 2015 and January 2022. There were 62 cases of Mason 2B Pilon subtype and 17 cases of avulsion subtype. Among Mason 2B Pilon subtype patients, 35 were treated with posterolateral approach (group A), 27 patients were treated with combined approach (group B). There was no significant difference in gender, age, injured side, cause of injury, time from injury to operation, preoperative hospital stay, preoperative visualanalogue scale (VAS) score, and intraoperative internal fixation between the two groups ( P>0.05). All patients with Mason 2B avulsion subtype were treated by posterolateral approach, including 7 males and 10 females, aged from 25 to 68 years, with an average of 46.1 years. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and complications were recorded. The reduction quality was evaluated by Ovadia deals radiographic score, and the ankle function and pain were evaluated by VAS score, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and ankle range of motion.@*RESULTS@#Mason 2B Pilon subtype: There was no significant difference in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and follow-up time between the two groups ( P>0.05). The radiological evaluation of Ovadia deals in group A was significantly worse than that in group B ( P<0.05). The VAS score in the two groups significantly improved at each time point after operation, and the VAS score and AOFAS score further improved with the extension of time after operation, and the differences were significant ( P<0.05). Except that the AOFAS score of group A was significantly lower than that of group B at last follow-up ( P<0.05), there was no significant difference in VAS score and AOFAS score between the two groups at other time points ( P>0.05). At last follow-up, the ankle range of motion in group A was significantly less than that in group B ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of sural nerve injury, deep tissue infection, limitation of toe movement, and traumatic ankle arthritis between the two groups ( P>0.05). Mason 2B avulsion subtype: The operation time was (119.47±20.61) minutes and the intraoperative blood loss was 50 (35, 55) mL. Seventeen patients were followed up 13-25 months, with an average of 18 months. The Ovadia deals score was excellent in 10 cases, good in 6 cases, and poor in 1 case at 1 week after operation, and the excellent and good rate was 94.1%. All fractures healed in 8-18 weeks with an average of 12.35 weeks. There were 1 case of sural nerve injury and 3 cases of traumatic ankle arthritis after operation. No deep tissue infection or limitation of toe movement occurred. The VAS score decreased significantly and AOFAS score increased significantly with time, and the differences were significant between different time points before and after operation ( P<0.05). The ankle range of motion at last follow-up was (56.71±2.47)°.@*CONCLUSION@#Compared with the posterolateral approach, the combined approach is a better choice for the treatment of Mason 2B Pilon subtype. If the posteromedial bone block does not affect the reduction of the medial malleolus, the posterolateral approach can achieve good effectiveness for Mason 2B avulsion subtype.

Tratamiento mínimamente invasivo/percutáneo de fracturas de pilón tibial con asistencia artroscópica en Hospital Regional de Talca / Minimally invasive/percutaneous treatment of tibial pilon fractures with arthroscopic assistance at the Regional Hospital

Tibial pilon fractures are a complex injury to treat due to the great involvement of soft and bone tissues. The classic surgical treatment is based on open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF), adding morbidity to the soft tissues, increasing the risk of complications. This has motivated the development of minimally invasive and/or percutaneous techniques to reduce complications, and with the advent of arthroscopy, achieve anatomical reductions. METHODS: A retrospective observational study of twelve patients with tibial pilon fractures who were treated in our center with minimally invasive and/ or percutaneous osteosynthesis with arthroscopic support was carried out between January 2019 and June 2021. Fractures were characterized using the AO/OTA classification for tibial pilon. Age, sex, fracture mechanism, exposure and initial management in the emergency department (cast immobilization or external fixation), definitive treatment, complications and clinical and functional evaluation twelve months after definitive osteosynthesis. For this last point, plantar flexion, dorsiflexion and the AOFAS and FAOS Score were measured. RESULTS: The operated patients were 12, 8 were men (67%) and 4 were women (33%). The average age was 49 (17-68) years. The definitive treatment was carried out after an average of 8 days (5-12 days). Surgical treatment schemes were as follows: percutaneous osteosynthesis with medial anatomical plate and arthroscopic support (OPAA), minimally invasive osteosynthesis with cannulated screws and arthroscopic support (OMIAA) and osteosynthesis with external circular guide and arthroscopic support (OTCAA). In the AOFAS Score, three patients had excellent results (≥ 90 points), 6 patients had good results (≥ 80 points) and 3 patients had acceptable results (≥ 70 points). In the FAOS Score, eight patients had over 80% (good results) and 4 patients had over 60% (accep - table results). DISCUSSION: Historically, tibial pilon fractures have been considered non-reconstructable and with poor long-term results. Initially this paradigm changed with the principles of Rüedi for the reconstruction of the tibial pilon and improve the results. ORIF has been widely used until today, it allows achieving an anatomical joint reduction, it allows to give stability and length to the fibula, graft contribution and sta - bilization with the medial plate. Today this concept is changing again, since the emphasis is on the care of the soft tissues to allow a better recovery of the patient and reduce the complications of the classic approach, it is in this context that the appearance of minimally invasive and/or percutaneous techniques with arthroscopic assistance has allowed us to have excellent functional and clinical results with less da - mage to the soft tissues. CONCLUSION: The proper management and care of the soft tissues in a high-energy fracture of the tibial pilon is essential to obtain favorable clinical results and thus achieve restoration of ankle function. Percutaneous and minimally invasive management has optimized management of the tibial pilon, redu - cing the rates of complications, amputation, and pri - mary arthrodesis.

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.

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.

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.

Comportamiento de pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial tratados mediante fijación externa / Behavior of patients with tibial pilon fractures treated by external fixation

Resumen: Introducción: Las fracturas del pilón tibial constituyen lesiones de difícil manejo por su situación anatómica, mecanismo de producción y daño de las partes blandas que la rodean. El tratamiento quirúrgico es el más empleado, la fijación externa puede utilizarse de forma transitoria o definitiva. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso de la fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio con un nivel de evidencia IV, grado de recomendación B, en 34 pacientes con fractura del pilón tibial, atendidos de Enero de 2014 a Febrero de 2020. Desde el punto de vista estadístico se utilizó la distribución de frecuencias absolutas y relativas para variables cualitativas y para las cuantitativas la prueba de t Student. Resultados: El promedio de edad general fue de 45.8 años, predominó el sexo masculino con una razón de 1.4 a 1 y la fractura cerrada-abierta 1.8 a 1. Predominaron las fracturas tipo A según la clasificación del grupo AO. En relación a las fracturas abiertas predominaron las de tipo 3A. Se detectó significación entre un antes y un después al aplicar las escalas Olreud C y Molander H de la Sociedad Americana del Tobillo y Pie y el Ankle Scoring System. Las complicaciones del procedimiento quirúrgico fueron mínimas. Conclusiones: La fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial es un método efectivo que puede emplearse de forma inmediata y definitiva en pacientes con fracturas abiertas y cerradas.

Abstract: Introduction: Tibial pylon fractures are difficult to manage injuries due to their anatomical situation, mechanism of production, and damage to the surrounding soft tissue. Surgical treatment is the most widely used, including external fixation that can be used temporarily or permanently. Objective: To evaluate the use of external fixation in patients with tibial pylon fractures. Material and methods: A pre-experimental study with a level of evidence II, recommendation grade B, was carried out in 34 patients with tibial pylon fracture, treated from January 2014 to February 2020. From the statistical point of view, the distribution of absolute and relative frequencies was used for qualitative variables and for quantitative variables, the Student's t test. Results: The general average age was 45.8 years, the male sex predominated with a ratio of 1.4 to 1 and the closed-open fractures 1.8 to 1. Type A fractures predominated according to the classification of the AO group. In relation to open fractures, 3A types predominated. Significance between a before and after was detected when applying the Olreud C and Molander H scales, from the American Ankle and Foot Society, and the Ankle Scoring System. The complications of the surgical procedure were minimal. Conclusions: External fixation in patients with tibial pylon fractures is an effective method that can be used immediately and definitively in patients with both open and closed fractures with few complications.

Evaluación de los resultados en el tratamiento de los pacientes con fracturas de pilón tibial / Outcomes assessment in the treatment of patients with tibial pylon fractures

RESUMEN Introducción: las fracturas de pilón tibial son un desafío para el cirujano y actualmente existe controversia en cuanto a su tratamiento. Objetivo: evaluar los resultados del tratamiento aplicado. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, longitudinal, con el universo de estudio de todos los pacientes que fueron atendidos y tratados con fractura de pilón tibial desde el 1 de enero de 2015 al 31 de diciembre de 2016. Se seleccionó una muestra de 27 pacientes. Resultados: hubo un predominio del sexo masculino (78 %), y del grupo de edades de 40 a 49 años para ambos sexos (37 %). Prevalecieron las fracturas producidas por accidentes de tránsito, con 59 %. Las fracturas cerradas fueron las más representadas, con 78 %. El 67 % de los pacientes no presentaron lesiones asociadas y predominaron las fracturas tipo II en el 55 % del total. Se aplicó tratamiento quirúrgico a un 74 % y se logró la consolidación en un 78 % de los casos antes de las 16 semanas. Antes de las 20 semanas se le indicó el apoyo al 78 % de los casos. Se complicaron 13 pacientes, para un 48 % del total. A pesar de ello, como resultado final, fueron evaluados de excelente y bien el 63 % de los pacientes. Conclusiones: la fractura de pilón tibial constituye una lesión de muy difícil manejo para el cirujano traumatólogo de hoy (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: tibial pylon fractures are a challenge for the surgeon surgery and currently there is a controversy regarding their treatment. Objective: to assess the outcomes of the applied treatment. Materials and methods: an observational, descriptive, longitudinal study was carried out with the study universe of all the patients who were attended and treated with tibial pylon fracture from January 1st, 2015 to December 31st, 2016. A sample composed by 27 patients was chosen. Results: male sex (78 %) and both-sexes 40-49 age group (37 %) predominated. There was a predominance of fractures caused by traffic accidents with 59 %, being closed fractures the most represented ones, with 78 %. 67 % of the patients did not present associated injuries, being type II fractures predominant in 55 % of the total. 74 % of the cases underwent surgery, achieving consolidation in 78 % of the cases before 16 weeks. Before 20 weeks, 78 % of the cases were indicated to set on their foot, and 13 patients had complications, representing 48 % of the total. In spite of this, 63 % of the patients were evaluated as excellent and well as final outcome. Conclusions: the tibial pylon fracture is an injury of very difficult handling for the today's orthopedic surgeon (AU).

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.

Epidemiological characteristics of patients with tibial pilon fracture / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the epidemiological characteristics of inpatients with tibial pilon fracture in The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University from 2016 to 2019.Methods:The data of all the patients who had been hospitalized for pilon fracture from January 2016 to December 2019 in The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University were collected using the medical image computer archiving and transmission system and the medical record query system. The patients' age, gender, occupation, residence, season, cause of injury, Rüedi-Allg?wer classification, and AO classification were analyzed.Results:A total of 234 inpatients with tibial pilon fracture were collected, including 179 males and 55 females, with a ratio of male to female of 3.3∶ 1. The prevalence age ranged from 41 to 50 years in male patients (31.3%, 56/179) and from 51 to 60 years in female patients (25.5%, 14/55). In the 234 patients, farmers (101 cases, 43.2%), rural area (166 cases, 70.9%) and spring season (77 cases, 32.9%) accounted for a higher proportion. The proportions of high-altitude falling (41.0%, 96/234) and high-energy injury (61.5%, 144/234) were the highest. Of the 234 patients by the Rüedi-Allg?wer classification, 23 (9.8%) had type Ⅰ fracture, 90 (38.5%) type Ⅱ fracture, and 121 (51.7%) type Ⅲ fracture, with type Ⅲ fracture prevalent in males (58.1%, 104/179) and type Ⅱ fracture prevalent in females (16.4%, 9/55). Of the 234 patients by the AO classification, 131 (56.0%) had type 43B fracture and 103 (44.0%) type 43C fracture, with a higher proportion of type 43B fractures in women (67.3%, 37/55) than in men (52.5%, 94/179). In type 43B fractures, type 43B3 (43.5%, 57/131) and type 43B3.3 (75.4%, 43/57) were the most common; in type 43C fractures, type 43C3 (74.8%, 77/103) and type 43C3.3 (51.9%, 40/77) were the most common.Conclusions:In the recent 4 years in The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, pilon fractures increased year by year and occurred more frequently in spring. They were more common in farmers and in the rural areas. They prevailed in the patients aged from 41 to 50 years. The Rüedi-Allg?wer type Ⅲ fractures and the AO type 43B fractures were the most common.

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.

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.

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.

Minimally invasive single locking plate combined with multiple planar screw internal fixation for pilon fracture / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of minimally invasive single locking plate combined with multiplanar screw internal fixation on pilon fracture of distal tibia. Methods A retrospective case control study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 51 patients with pilon fracture involving distal tibial articular surface admitted to 81th Group Military Hospital of the Army from January 2013 to August 2017. Among the patients, 20 patients including 15 males and five females, aged (37. 5 ± 9. 9)years were treated with closed traction reduction or open joint reduction through minimally invasive incision and single main locking plate combined with multiplanar screw placement ( study group) . There were 13 patients with type II and seven patients with type III according to Ru edi-Allgwer classification of fracture. In addition, 31 patients were treated with open reduction and multi-plate internal fixation (control group), including 25 males and six females, aged (43. 4 ± 11. 3) years. There were 20 patients with type II and 11 with type III according to Ru edi-Allgwer classification. The operation time, fracture healing time, postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Burwell-Charnley imaging evaluation criteria were used to assess the quality of fracture reduction. At the last follow-up, ankle function was assessed by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society ( AOFAS) ankle-hind foot functional score. Results All 51 patients were followed up for 6-24 months, with an average of 16 months. The operation time was (82. 5 ± 19. 2)minutes in the study group and (127. 7 ± 40. 8)minutes in the control group (P<0. 05). The fracture healing time was (10. 8 ± 1. 6)weeks in the study group and (11.0 ±1.5) weeks in the control group (P>0.05). Local skin necrosis (not above the plate) occurred in two patients in the study group and in three patients in the control group, with the wounds being healed within 3 months after dressing change and vacuum sealing drainage ( VSD) . In the control group, one patient had severe infection and recovered after treatment of steel plate removal, debridement and irrigation, and external fixator fixation. Three patients in the control group had skin necrosis resulting in plate exposure, who received transferred skin flaps to cover the wound. The incidence of postoperative complications were 10％ (2/20) and 23％ in the study group and the control group, respectively (7/31) (P >0. 05), with the incidence of severe complications for 0 and 13％(4/31)(P<0. 05), respectively. According to Burwell-Charnley imaging evaluation criteria, 18 patients obtained anatomical reduction in the study group, one had unsatisfactory reduction and one had poor reduction, with satisfaction rate of 90％. In the control group, 29 patients obtained anatomical reduction and two had unsatisfactory reduction, with satisfaction rate of 94％ (P>0. 05). At the last follow-up, AOFAS ankle-hind foot function scores were excellent in 12 patients, good in five patients, fair in two patients and poor in one patient in the study group with excellence rate of 85％, while the scores were excellent in 20 patients, good in six patients, fair in three patients and poor in two patients in the control group, with excellence rate of 84％ (P>0. 05). Conclusion For pilon fracture of distal tibia, both minimally invasive single locking plate combined with multi-plate screw internal fixation and open reduction combined with multi-plate internal fixation have good reduction effect and satisfactory recovery of ankle function, but the former can significantly shorten the operation time and reduce the incidence of serious complications after operation.

Extra-articular distal tibial fractures, is interlocking nailing an option? A prospective study of 147 cases / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

PURPOSE@#Distal tibia fractures comprise about 7%-10% of lower extremity trauma. Because of the peculiarity of the soft tissue and subcutaneous location of the bone there are many controversies in the ideal treatment of distal tibia fractures especially extra articular pilon fractures. Plating is fraught with complications of wound dehiscence and infection. There are limited studies which document outcomes in such cases using intramedullary interlocking nail. We intend to study the outcome and complications of extra articular distal tibial fractures treated with interlocking nailing.@*METHODS@#This is a prospective study conducted in a tertiary care orthopaedic hospital in southern India. There are 147 patients of distal tibia extra-articular fractures managed by IM nailing with follow up of more than one year were included in this study. Only cases with fresh injury (less than 1 week), fracture below the isthmus, closed and open Gustilo Anderson type 1 and 2 fractures were included in the study. Patients were reviewed at 3, 6, 12 and 24 weeks after surgery and thereafter at one year and were assessed for clinical and radiological signs of healing, any complications, time to union and functional outcome.@*RESULTS@#There were 102 males and 45 females (male/female ratio is 2.3:1) with a mean age of 38.96 (range 23-65) years. According to AO classification, there were 78 cases (53.06%) of 43-A1, 39 cases (26.53%) of 43-A2 and 30 cases of 43-A3 constituting 20.40%. The fracture united in all the patients at an average of 18 weeks (range 16-22 weeks), none of the patient in our series had a delayed or non-union. Two patients (1.47%) had the fracture united in mild valgus but it was well within the acceptable limits (<5°). The functional outcome was assessed in all the patients at final follow up using Olerud and Molander score all the patients fared an excellent to good score, there were no cases with poor score.@*CONCLUSION@#Intramedullary nailing is a viable option to treat distal tibial fractures with excellent outcome. Wound complications related to plating can be avoided but meticulous surgical technique is key to avoid malunion.

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.

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.