Management of comminuted distal metaphyseal tibial fractures with 3.5 mm anatomical anterolateral locking compression plate: A study of 34 cases

Abstract

Introduction: Management of distal metaphyseal tibial fractures is a formidable challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. Some of the confounding factors in management are delicate soft tissue in this area, presence of ankle joint in close proximity, small distal fragment size, ligament injuries, occasional fibular fractures and compaction of cancellous bone among others. The conventional implants are unsuitable for managing such fractures successfully. Material and method: The 3.5mm anatomical anterolateral locking compression plates are precontoured plates that have been designed and developed especially for fixation of distal tibial metaphyseal fractures to overcome some of these problems. 34 patients underwent management using this implant. The study was done prospectively. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the management of such fractures with this implant and to assess the functional outcome of the same. Results: 83% of patients in our study had excellent to good functional outcome. Conclusions: We concluded that that the anatomical anterolateral plate is an excellent option for managing such fractures and gives consistent and reproducible clinical results.