Early limited internal fixation of diaphyseal extensions in select pilon fractures: upgrading AO/OTA type C fractures to AO/OTA type B

Fractures of the tibial pilon may present an array of problems and potential complications. Staged treatment with initial spanning external fixation of the ankle has proven to be a successful strategy for the treatment of these difficult fractures in many cases. A subset of the tibial pilon fractures, with an oblique extension to the diaphysis may constitute a treatment problem, as these long fractures may be difficult to reduce at the time of definitive fixation, often 1-3 weeks post-injury due to interposed soft tissues, hematoma and/or early callus. Anatomic reduction of this fracture may thus require more extensive dissection than might be desirable in this injury. We offer a technique to assist in the treatment of the subset of these difficult fractures. In appropriate cases, a small fragment plate may be applied to the diaphyseal component of the fracture in an anti-glide type plate application, through a small incision proximal to the area of greatest injury. This re-establishes the length, rotation and alignment of this fragment which is commonly attached to either the Chaput anterolateral or the Volkmann posterolateral fragment. It additionally provides the intimate contact that may favor early union or minimize the need for secondary procedures. The fracture is thereby converted from a complete articular AO/OTA 43-C type pattern to a partial articular, or AO/OTA 43-B type pattern.