The significance of segmental fibular fractures in the management of associated tibial fractures.

Abstract

One hundred seventy-six patients with 179 tibial shaft fractures (between March 2003 and August 2007) with a minimum of 4 months follow up were retrospectively reviewed by the author. Twenty-nine of these fractures were found to have segmental fibular fractures. These 29 fractures were analysed and compared with the total of 179 tibial fractures. Segmental tibial fractures with and without segmental tibial comminution were also analysed and compared. The segmental fibular fracture group had a greater incidence of associated injuries, associated fractures, open tibial fractures, Gustilo III B type fractures, major flap procedures, bony infection and bone grafting procedures which was statistically significant. The coincidence of segmental fibular fractures and segmental tibial fracture with segmental comminution indicated a bad prognosis. Segmental fibular fracture (associated with tibial fracture) appear more severe injury than segmental tibial fracture.