Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of peri-articular fractures of distal tibia: A clinical study

Abstract

Objectives: Treatment of distal tibial fractures using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique may minimise damage to soft tissues and the vascular integrity of bony fragments. This is a study to assess the outcome of patients treated with MIPO technique for distal tibial fractures. Methods: A Prospective study of 30 patients treated for distal tibial fractures using a distal tibial locking plate through the MIPO technique. Clcal and functional outcome was evaluated using Ankle score. Results: There were 24 males and 6 females of mean age 40 years. The mean follow-up period was 14 months. According to the AO classification system, there were 12 patients with 43A type fractures, 10 patients with 43B, and 8 patients with 43C type fractures. Mean time to union was 18 months. There were 5 cases with superficial infections treated successfully using oral antibiotics and no failures of fixation. There were no cases of non-union/delayed union or rotational malalignment. Conclusion: MIPO is an effective method of treatment for distal tibial fractures. The use of indirect reduction techniques and small incisions is technically demanding but decreases surgical trauma to soft tissues.