Technical Article: Short-segment Placement of Proximal Tibial Half-pins

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Limb reconstruction surgery

Background:

• Proximal tibial fixation for hexapod frames presents challenges in balancing ring stability with the need for proximal corticotomies.
• Achieving adequate stability while allowing space for regenerate formation is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and analyze a novel technique for short-segment, three half-pin placement in the proximal tibia.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this technique in facilitating proximal corticotomies.

Main Methods:

• A novel method for orienting and placing three 6 mm half-pins within 18 mm of the proximal tibia was developed.
• A retrospective analysis of 26 patients who underwent this procedure over 12 months was conducted.
• Complications such as peri-implant fractures, pin site loosening, septic arthritis, and revision surgery were assessed.

Main Results:

• The study included 26 patients with an average age of 45 years (range 24-80).
• No complications, as defined in the study (peri-implant fractures, loosening, septic arthritis, revision surgery), were reported.
• The technique allowed for placement of three half-pins in a minimal bone segment.

Conclusions:

• The described short-segment proximal tibial half-pin configuration offers excellent fixation.
• This technique maximizes proximal tibial space, which is advantageous for performing high corticotomies.
• The method provides a stable fixation solution in a limited bone area.