The effects of the fibular stabilization in the treatment of distal tibio-fibula fracture

Song, Kyung Jin; Kim, Gyu Hyung; Park, Myung Sik; Hwang, Byung Yun

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of fibula stabilization on reduction and union time of tibial fracture, and change in ankle mortise in the treatment of distal tibiofibular fracture.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We reviewed 23 cases with distal tibiofibula fracture; 10 cases were stabilized and 13 cases were not stabilized for the fibula fracture with reduction and stabilization for the tibia fracture. We analyzed the initial and last follow-up radiograph, and clinical functional outcome.
RESULTS
There were significant differences in the tibiofibular clear space and tibiofibular overlap between two groups and there were somewhat significant differences in the union time of the tibial fracture and ROM of ankle and pain of fracture site or ankle between two groups. But there were no significant differences in talo-crural angle and gap of tibial fracture site between two groups. Moreover, such factors as initial displacement, soft tissue damage, comminution of fracture were affected the union time and prognosis of a tibial fractures.
CONCLUSION
Fibular stabilization group was effective in the maintenance of ankle mortise but there was no difference in the functional outcome. Analysis for much more cases and long term follow-up will be necessary for the precise evaluation of the treatment results.