What is tibial plafond fracture?
The fracture of the tibial plafond or pilon fracture is an uncommon but difficult fracture to manage. Fracture of the plafond occurs when the talus is driven into the tibia from axial compression. The type of fracture that occurs will depend on the position and rotation of the foot at the time of impact.
Where is the tibial plafond located?
Tibial plafond (“pilon”) fractures involve the distal articular surface of the tibia and extend to the metaphysis. Plafond (French for “ceiling”) refers to the horizontal distal tibial articular surface.
Where is the posterior tibial plafond?
Tibial plafond fractures occur just above the ankle joint and involve that critical cartilage surface of the ankle. The other major factor that must be considered with these injuries is the soft-tissue around the ankle region.
What is the plafond fracture?
A pilon fracture is a type of break of the shinbone (tibia) that happens near the ankle. Most of the time, it includes breaks in both the tibia and fibula of the lower leg. The lower ends of these bones make up part of the ankle. The term “pilon” comes from the French word for pestle.
How long does it take to heal a fractured tibia?
Recovery from a tibia-fibula fracture typically takes about three to six months.
What is medial malleolus fracture?
A medial malleolus fracture is a break in the tibia, at the inside of the lower leg. Fractures can occur at different levels of the medial malleolus.
How serious is a pilon fracture?
Approximately 20% of pilon fractures are open fractures, which means the broken bone has pierced through the skin. Open fractures can lead to infection, which can be dangerous. Pilon fractures are often severe injuries that can cause long-term issues, such as arthritis in your ankle joint.
How many days will it take to walk normally after a tibia fracture?
What is the recovery process for a tibia fracture? Recovery time for a tibia fracture typically takes 4-6 months to heal completely. If the fracture is open or comminuted, healing time may take longer. Your doctor will often prescribe medications for pain-relief for a short period of time after the injury or surgery.
Can you walk with a medial malleolus fracture?
You may walk on the foot as comfort allows although you will find it easier to walk with crutches in the early stages. The swelling is often worse at the end of the day and elevating it will help.