MIPO Technique for Treatment of Distal Tibial Fractures

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Abstract

Background: Distal tibial fractures are usually associated with significant soft tissue injury caused by high energy trauma, which may result in a series of complications such as fixation failure, skin flap necrosis or deep infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the result of minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis for treatment of distal tibial fractures associated with soft tissues injuries. including preoperative planning, operative technique, and complication encountered during the study period. Methods: This prospective study included 20 trauma patients with distal tibial fractures. Patient selection was mainly based on the fracture pattern and the severity of soft tissue status. Patients were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and radiological evaluation. Results: All fractures were united in a mean period 9 weeks. According to American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, 15 patients (75%) were graded as excellent, good in 3 patients (15%) and fair in 2 patients (10%). Complications: This study had 17 patients (85%) with no complication, 2 patients (10%) with skin infection and one patient (5%) had malunion of fracture. Conclusions: On the basis of the finding of this study it can be concluded that MIPO technique yields good to excellent clinical outcomes with accepted functional outcome for the management of closed distal tibia fractures. Being minimally invasive, it preserves the biological environment by preserving the soft tissue and vascularity and reduces incidence of wound complications.