Assessment of the role of fibular fixation in distal-third tibia-fibula fractures and its significance in decreasing malrotation and malalignment.

BACKGROUND: In the treatment of distal-third tibia/fibula fractures treated by interlocking nailing, the role of fibular fixation is not clearly defined. This study aimed to assess the benefits of fibular fixation in such fractures.

METHODS: Sixty patients with fractures of the lower third of the leg were enrolled into the study and divided into two groups based on whether the fibula was fixed (group A) or not (group B). Fracture tibia was treated with interlocked intramedullary nailing and fibular fixation was done using a 3.5-mm Limited Contact Dynamic Compression Plate (LC-DCP). The two groups were compared for differences in rotation at ankle, angulation at the fracture site, time of union and complications. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed regularly. Merchant-Dietz criteria were used to assess ankle function.

RESULTS: The demographics of the two groups were similar. Average valgus angulation was significantly less in group A (average 5°) versus group B (average 9°). The degree of rotational malalignment at the ankle in group A was average 7° versus average 15° in group B. The outcome of two groups for clinical ankle score, time of union and complications showed no significant differences.

CONCLUSION: Fixation of the fibula along with interlocking nailing of the tibia decreases the malalignment of the tibia and malrotation of the ankle in distal-third fractures of the tibia and fibula as compared with only interlocking nailing.