Comparison of different locking plate fixation methods in distal tibia fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Distal tibia fractures are common injuries.
• Optimal surgical management remains debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess outcomes of locking plate fixation for distal tibia fractures.
• To compare surgical approaches (medial vs. anterior) and fixation methods (bridge vs. rigid).
• To identify factors influencing functional results and complication rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 45 patients.
• Subgroup analysis based on surgical approach and fixation technique.
• Evaluation of bone union time and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores.

Main Results:

• Nonunion occurred in 26.6% of patients; infection rate was 11.1%.
• Anterior approach with anterolateral plates showed higher bone union complications.
• Infection and re-operation rates were similar across subgroups.
• No correlation found between fracture characteristics, plate/screw details, and healing time or AOFAS score.

Conclusions:

• Surgical approach and fixation method did not significantly influence overall outcomes.
• Medial plating via MIPO technique is a favorable option when feasible.
• Distal tibia fracture fixation requires careful consideration of technique.