Arthroscopically Assisted Limited Open Reduction and Ilizarov External Fixation of Tibial Pilon Fractures

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical results of the pilon fractures treated with arthroscopically assisted limited open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study of the clinical result, bone union, complication and postoperative ankle function of 22 pilon fractures treated with arthroscopically assisted limited open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation between January 1999 to March 2004. RESULTS: Clinical follow up averaged 16 months, with an average age of 39.2. All patients with type 1 and 2 fracture had excellent or good score by Ovadia and Beals criteria. Closed fractures healed within 13 weeks and open fractures within 16 weeks after surgery in average. Average range of motion of the ankle was 12o dorsiflexion (0~20 degree) and 25o plantar flexion (15~35 degree). CONCLUSION: Minimal soft tissue dissection and anatomical reduction are very important factor for minimizing complication and satisfactory ankle function. So, arthroscopically assisted limited open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation is an effective treatment option for tibial pilon fractures.