ORIGINAL ARTICLE   

Minerva Orthopedics 2023 August;74(4):341-5

DOI: 10.23736/S2784-8469.23.04296-7

Copyright © 2023 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis of distal fibula fractures with locking compression plate: our experience in Indian population

Yashavantha C. KUMAR ¹ ✉, Ashok P. KUMAR ¹, Rahul P. PANDURANGA ¹, Karthik S. KOLLI ², Vishal M. PATIL ³

¹ Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore, India;2 KR Puram Govt Hospital, Bangalore, India; ³ Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Hubli, India

BACKGROUND: Weber type C fibula fractures are some of the frequently occurring fractures. One of the important complications of fixation of ankle fractures is infection and wound dehiscence due to the poor soft tissues around that part of the body. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) offers preserving and minimal trauma to the soft tissues around the ankle in fixing these fractures. There are very few studies in literature reporting on MIPO for these fractures and none reported in the Indian population. We report our experience of this technique in treating these fractures.
METHODS: This prospective study included 16 patients with Weber type C distal fibula fracture treated with locking compression plating by minimally invasive technique. Clinical assessment was done using FAOS scores at regular follow-ups of 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. Radiological parameters were compared with the normal ankle at 1-year follow-up.
RESULTS: The average duration for complete fracture union was around 13.5 weeks. There were no complications associated with this technique. Average FAOS Score on follow-up significantly improved from initial scores (P<0.001, One way ANOVA). The Talocrural angle and fibular lengths were well preserved.
CONCLUSIONS: MIPO for Weber type C fractures of distal fibula are associated with good functional and radiological results. This technique has least complications compared to conventional plating by open reduction in such fractures.

KEY WORDS: Fibula, fractures; Ankle fractures; Fracture fixation, internal; Bone plates