Distal Tibial Fracture Fixation with Locking Compression Plate (LCP) Using the Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Osteosynthesis (MIPO) Technique.

BACKGROUND

Treatment of distal tibial fractures has always been a challenge. Distal tibia is more superficial, with less soft tissue coverage and blood supply. Therefore, operative treatment can lead to complications. We aim to see the results of the distal tibial fracture fixation with LCP using MIPO.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-one consecutive patients were prospectively reviewed. AO types 43A, 43B and 43C were included. Fourteen male and seven female patients with a mean age of 51 years were included.

RESULTS

Mean time to union was 5.5 months (range 3-13 months). Seventeen fractures healed with good functional outcome. One patient had delayed union. One patient had nonunion and underwent revision; the fracture ultimately healed with good functional outcome. Two patients developed superficial wound infections but the fractures united completely.

DISCUSSION

The MIPO technique for distal tibia has shown good results with many additional advantages over the conventional methods. Early mobilization without risk of secondary displacement helps to prevent stiffness and contracture.