Venous insufficiency as a late complication after tibial fracture

Thirty-eight patients were followed up 13 to 17 years after sustaining a fracture of the tibia. The aim was to establish the frequency of post-thrombotic venous insufficiency. All patients were examined clinically and with a modified ultrasound technique. In addition some were studied using phlebography. Fifteen patients had symptoms of venous insufficiency in the fractured leg. Seven had only local symptoms, while in the other eight the venous insufficiency was verified objectively. The following factors predisposed to the development of venous insufficiency: Age above 45 years at the time of trauma, a high energy trauma resulting in comminuted fractures, and a long immobilization period.