Publication:

Clinico-radiological and functional outcomes of distal tibia extra-articular fractures (AO 43A1-A3) managed by minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis in a tertiary care hospital: a series of 21 patients

Background The fractures around distal tibia are challenging injuries due to limited soft tissue coverage, precarious blood supply and subcutaneous nature of the tibia. Minimal invasive plating for distal tibia fracture is a very good option for treatment, as this does not disrupt the blood supply and cause very little insult to soft tissue.

Methods 21 patients with extra-articular fractures of distal tibia were operated using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique of plating. They were followed up to six months in terms of radiological union and functional outcomes, and complications. Functional outcome was assessed using Olerud Molander scoring system.

Results Good to excellent results were obtained in almost all the patients using Olerud and Molander scoring system, mean score being 80. These results were in comparison with the studies done earlier.

Conclusions Our study concluded that clinico-radiological and functional outcomes of distal tibia extra-articular fracture managed by MIPO technique of plating are satisfactory with minimal complications.