Effect analysis of posterolateral combined with posteromedial approach in patients with posterior Pilon fracture

Abstract

Objective To explore the effect of posterolateral combined with posteromedial approach in patients with posterior Pilon fracture. Methods The clinical data of 16 posterior Pilon fracture patients who had underwent posterolateral combined with posteromedial approach treatment from June 2014 to December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Results The patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months (average 14 months). There were no complications of incision infection, skin necrosis and nerve damage. All the fractures were healed. The fracture healing time was 12 to 24 weeks (average 16 weeks), and no loosening or breakage of the implant was observed. Claw toes deformity occurred in 1 case 6 months after surgery, and the symptom improved after tendon lengthening surgery. According to American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system, the results of ankle function were excellent in 8 cases, good in 5 cases, and fair in 3 cases. Conclusions The posterolateral combined with posteromedial approach for treatment of posterior Pilon fracture can achieve satisfactory clinic effects because it has many advantages such as good exposure, easy reduction and fixation, less invasion of soft tissue and so on. Key words: Fractures, bone; Ankle joint; Fracture fixation; Retrospective studies