Use of Fibula Bridge Graft Technique to Treat a Distal Tibia Non Union- A Case Report

Compound distal tibia fractures have high incidence of nonunions and have varied presentation as far as status of fibula is concerned. If fibula is sufficiently healthy we can use it for bridging the nonunion of tibia.

We present a case of 20 year old female with compound and segmental tibia fracture. Primary stablisation by external fixation and later cast brace application achieved union at the proximal end of the segmental fragment with non union at the distal end. This was then treated with bridge grafting of fibula and screw fixation of fibula to the tibia. Five years follow shows good clinical and functional outcome without any complications.

Its infrequent to find fibula spanning across the tibia nonunion, however when available this can be used as bridge graft to promote healing.