Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026
09:01
Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
Distal tibial metaphyseal malunion: current concepts
Megna Panchbhavi1, Mark Lantieri2, Amiethab Aiyer2
1Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma
|May 7, 2026
Summary
Distal tibial metaphyseal malunion, a complication of leg trauma, impacts ankle function. Early recognition and tailored treatments like corrective osteotomy are crucial for optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Management
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Distal tibial metaphyseal malunion complicates lower-extremity trauma, affecting alignment and ankle function.
- Even minor deformities can disrupt ankle joint mechanics, leading to pain and arthritis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of distal tibial metaphyseal malunion.
- To synthesize current evidence for optimizing patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Narrative literature review.
- Systematic assessment using weight-bearing radiographs and computed tomography.
Main Results:
- Malunion results from fracture characteristics, fixation difficulties, soft-tissue issues, and associated injuries.
- Evaluation requires detailed imaging to assess deformity and joint congruity.
Conclusions:
- Management strategies prioritize cartilage preservation and symptom severity.
- Treatment options include osteotomy, external fixation, intramedullary techniques, arthrodesis, or total ankle replacement.
- Individualized, early treatment is key for successful outcomes.
