Posterolateral approach for tibial pilon fractures: A report of two cases

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of displaced tibial pilon fract ures can lead to a high percentage of good and excellent functional results , but has also been associated with a meaningful incidence of wound breakdo wn and infection. The use of the posterolateral approach to the distal tibi a for ORIF of tibial pilon fractures is presented. This may be used instead of the standard anteromedial incision in certain fracture configurations. The flexor hallucis longus muscle coverage overlying the plate fixation of the tibia and ability to fix both the tibia and fibula through the same inc ision may decrease the risk of deep infection and wound complications in th ese injuries frequently associated with marked soft tissue trauma.