open reduction and internal fixation with a locked-screw plate was performed. Complications experienced included three cases of superficial wound necrosis, in two cases a deep vein thrombosis occurred. All fractures healed but two patients needed an early bone graft because of insufficient bony consolidation. At follow-up, six Patients had no deficit in the range of movement of the ankle compared with the unaffected side, 19 patients experienced a deficit of movement of less then one third compared to the opposite side. In 27 cases no or only mild posttraumatic arthritis of the ankle occurred. There was no secondary loss of reduction or need for arthrodesis. The mean AOFAS score was 73.4 (52–97). A two-stage treatment plan in fractures of the distal lower limb with external fixation followed by locked-plate osteosynthesis reduces local complications with a good functional result.
Key Words
Pilon fracture Tibial plafond Staged treatment External Fixation Locked-screw plate