Should We Fix the Fibula in Tibial Plafond Fractures? A Meta-analysis Reviewing the Evidence Base for Fibula Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in Tibial Plafond Fractures.

Abstract

Open reduction and internal fixation are the standard of care to stabilize tibial plafond fractures. However, it remains uncertain as to whether fixation of the fibula affects the outcome. This study aimed to review the evidence base for comparable outcomes in tibial plafond fractures when undergoing open reduction and internal fixation of ipsilateral fibula fractures compared with open reduction and internal fixation of the tibia alone. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was completed; 4 studies were included for analysis. This study demonstrated no statistically significant differences in the incidence of nonunion (p = .784) or mal-union (p = .416). There was a greater rate of removal of metalwork in the fibula operative group compared to the tibia alone group (p < .001). The current evidence demonstrates that open reduction and internal fixation of ipsilateral fibula fractures in tibial plafond fractures is not necessarily routinely indicated for all fractures.