Outcome Analysis of Distal Tibial Fractures Managed by Open Reduction Internal Fixation using Plate Osteosynthesis

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Fracture of the distal tibia is one of the common fractures encountered by an orthopedic surgeon. Many studieshave been associated even as little as 1 mm incongruence of articular surface landed with worst outcome. Distal tibial fracturesare complicated by poor bone stock, soft tissue complication, poor vascularity leading to nonunion, gross comminution, andmalalignment.Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate functional outcome analysis of distal tibial fractures managed by open reductioninternal fixation using plate osteosynthesis.Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted at KAPV Medical College, Tiruchirappalli. A total of 20 patientswere treated with distal tibial plating. Fibular plating was done in eight of these patients. Patients were analyzed using Karlströmand Olerud scoring system, with follow-up of 3–18 months.Results: Ten patients had excellent functional results, six patients had good results, three patients had acceptable results,and 1 patient had a poor result. Quality and vascularity of bone seem to influence the outcome to a large extent.Conclusion: Based on our study, we conclude that distal tibial fractures managed with plate minimally invasive plateosteosynthesis technique allow early mobilization of the patients and provide a good functional outcome.