Minimally invasive percutaneous locking compression plate internal fixation in the treatment of metaphyseal fracture of distal tibia in children

Abstract

Objective To explore the efficacy of minimally invasive percutaneous locking compression plate(LCP)internal fixation in the treatment of metaphyseal fracture of distal tibia in children.Methods Between January 2006 and June 2008,13 males and 4 females with metaphyseal fracture of distal tibia underwent minimally invasive percutaneous locking compression plate(LCP) internal fixation at this center. The average age of these patients was 12 years and 1 month old(range,8 years and 7 months to 14 years).According to the AO comprehensive classification of pediatric long bone fractures,12 cases were classified as type 43-M/3.1,3 were 43-M/3.2 and 2 were 43t-M/3.1.Of the 17 patients,2 were open fracture(Gustilo type Ⅰ).Results All the patients were followed up for an average period of 26 months(range,10 to 35 months).All the fractures healed well and the average healing time was 3.2 months(range,2.5 to 4.2 months).The ankle functions of the patients were evaluated according to the AOFAS scoring system.Fifteen patients'ankle function(88.2%)were graded as excellent,2(11.8%)were good.The average leg length discrepancy was 3 mm(range,-0.5 to 11 mm).Superficial infection occurred in 1 case.One patient felt uncomfortable around the implant.The implant was removed with some difficulties in 1 case.No Other complications were noted.Conclusions Minimally invasive percutaneous locking compression plate osteosynthesis is an effective treatment for metaphyseal fracture of distal tibia in children. Key words: Tibial fracture; Surgical procedures,minimally invasive; Locking compression plate; Fracture fixation