Evaluation of Outcome of Management of Distal Tibial Fractures using Distal Tibial Locking Plate

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim The modern trend in the management of fractures is fast changing in favor of rigid fixation and early mobilization with minimal period of plaster immobilization. We present a prospective cohort study of fixation of distal tibial fractures with distal tibial locking plate and its evaluation in terms of maintenance of accurate anatomical reduction, stable fixation, with early restoration of functions. Materials and methods A total of 25 patients with median age 38.04 years, age range 19 to 70, with distal tibial fracture were treated by using distal tibial locking plate. The outcome was evaluated using American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score. Results The majority of fractures in this study were extraarticular (64%), while 20% were partial articular fractures and 16% were complete articular fractures. Out of 25 patients, 6 patients had superficial infection and 1 patient had deep infection. Out of 25 cases, 5 cases had union by 16 weeks, 11 cases by 20 weeks, 7 cases had union by 30 weeks, and 2 cases had nonunion. According to AOFAS score at 6 months, 4 cases had score of 31 to 70 and 21 cases had score of 71 to 100. Conclusion The results of our study corroborate with the contemporary literature relevant to distal tibial fracture fixation performed with various locking plates. Therefore, locking compression plate is a good device to stabilize the fracture of the distal tibial. Clinical significance Locking plates are a good device to stabilize the fractures of the distal tibial, especially when used in conjunction with meticulous intraoperative handling of soft tissue and active participation of patients in rehabilitation program. Studying this alternative method expands the present knowledge for the management of distal tibial fractures. How to cite this article Ahmed M, Jindal S, Bansal V, Kapila R, Garg RS. Evaluation of Outcome of Management of Distal Tibial Fractures using Distal Tibial Locking Plate. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2017;4(1):5-9.