Evaluation of result of minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique in the treatment of fracture distal tibia: a prospective follow-up study from Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

Background

High speed motor vehicle accidents are on the rise over the past few years, a major cause of complex fractures of tibia. The main treatment aim of this type of fractures is reinstatement of the normal alignment and articular congruity. Although different surgical techniques are available, but minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis (MIPO) is most popular in minimal articular comminution and damage of soft tissue envelope. MIPO advantages are no periosteal dissections, no disruption of hematoma, stable fixation, early mobilization, less complications and relatively higher rates of union. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the functional and clinical outcomes of distal tibia fracture patients, treated by internal fixation by MIPO technique with locking compression plate (LCP).

Methods

Twenty patients with closed distal tibia fracture with or without intra articular extension treated with MIPO with LCP were prospectively followed for average duration of 18.45 months (range 5-30 months). Fractures were classified according AO classification into broad types.

Results

Average duration of injury-surgery interval was 12days. The age incidence was an average of 38.95 yrs. High occurrence of fracture was seen in labourer (65%), maximum cases (50%) mode of injury was due to road traffic accidents. 75% of the patients showed radiologic union in 13-16 weeks, full weight bearing was achieved in 13-16 weeks. Overall achievement was 75% excellent, 10% good, 10% fair and 5% with poor result.

Conclusion

The present study confirmed that MIPO with LCP is an effective and safe treatment method in terms of union time and complications rate for distal tibia fracture.