Ipsilateral tibial shaft fracture and distal tibial triplane fracture with an intact fibula: a case report

J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong). 2011 Dec;19(3):364-6. doi: 10.1177/230949901101900321.

Abstract

We present a case of an ipsilateral tibial shaft fracture and a distal tibial triplane fracture with an intact fibula in a 14-year-old boy. Computed tomography revealed the distal tibial triplane fracture with a 2.6-mm displaced Tillaux fragment and a posterior malleolar shear fragment. Open reduction and internal fixation was performed to optimise healing and outcome. This is a rare injury, for which a high index of suspicion is needed for diagnosis. Missing the intra-articular distal tibial triplane fracture could result in a disabling angular deformity (mostly varus) or limb-length discrepancy secondary to premature partial closure of the distal physis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Football / injuries*
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal
  • Humans
  • Intra-Articular Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Intra-Articular Fractures / etiology
  • Intra-Articular Fractures / surgery*
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Tibial Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Tibial Fractures / etiology
  • Tibial Fractures / surgery*