Tibial fractures treated with pins and plaster
1St. Francis Regional Medical Center, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita.
Orthopaedic Review
|August 1, 1986
Summary
Transfixing pins in plaster casts for tibial fractures showed higher complication rates than previously reported. This study suggests limiting this treatment to specific low-energy fractures and emphasizes accurate reduction and early weight bearing.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Bone Fracture Management
Background:
- Transfixing pins in plaster casts are a common treatment for tibial fractures.
- Previous reviews indicated low complication and high union rates for this method.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively review the outcomes of tibial fractures treated with transfixing pins and plaster casts.
- To identify the actual rates of union, malunion, and complications associated with this treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 42 tibial fractures treated with pins and plaster.
- Minimum follow-up period of two years.
Main Results:
- A significant incidence of nonunion, delayed union, and malunion was observed.
- Secondary surgical interventions were frequently required.
- Local complications related to pin use were also noted.
Conclusions:
- The pin-and-plaster method may have higher complication rates than previously suggested.
- Recommendations include accurate anatomic reduction, early weight bearing, timely pin removal, and restricting use to select low-energy fractures.
