Functional outcome of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis using anatomical locking compression plate for distal tibia fractures: A prospective study

Abstract

Background: Distal tibia fracture is a therapeutic challenge in modern orthopaedics. Due to fracture pattern, periarticular location, minimal soft tissue coverage, the surgical treatment is complex one. Various modality of surgical treatment such as closed intramedullary nailing, The newer technique of fixation of distal tibia fractures - minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis involves less soft tissue handling and the minimal periosteal stripping resulting in low infection rate and faster healing.Materials and Methods: The prospective study was done at a tertiary care centre on 18 patients from June 2017 to June 2019. The functional outcome is evaluated by clinical and radiological (AP/LATERAL) aspects at 6th, 12th weeks, 3rd, 6th months and one year interval using Olerud-Molander Ankle Questionnaire/ Score (OMAS).Results: The results were excellent in 54%, good in 29% and fair in 17% of patients. The post-operative pain was minimal and the post-operative ankle function was very good.Conclusion: Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis using LCP proves to be a safer technique in the management of distal tibial fractures without intra-articular comminution by providing good fracture healing, enabling rapid functional recovery and avoiding major skin complications.