Minimally invasive locking screw plate fixation of non-articular proximal and distal tibia fractures

SummaryIntramedullary nailing of proximal and distal quarter tibia fractures is known to be a challenging procedure due to the metaphyseal enlargement, the reduced contact between implant and cortex and fracture comminution. Therefore, some authors suggest preferring the use of plate internal fixation in the management of these challenging fractures. The purpose of this manuscript is to present and describe our technique of minimally invasive locking plate osteosynthesis in the treatment of extra-articular proximal and distal tibia fractures. Osteosynthesis was performed by means of a locking screw plate system which construct characteristics usually allow immediate weight-bearing and early functional mobilization. This minimally invasive surgical procedure advantageously combines the principles of closed fixation with construct stability.