Tibia and Fibula
Tibia also called shin, is the inner and larger of the two bones of the lower leg. The tibia forms the lower half of the knee joint. Fibula is the outer of the two bones of the lower leg.
Fractures of the tibia and fibula are relatively common due to the subcutaneous (just under the skin) nature of the tibia. Open fractures of the tibia are more common than in any other long bone. These fractures are more common through direct impact and the risk of complications is relative to the soft tissue damage. If the fibula is intact, there will be less displacement in the tibial fracture. Although some fractures can be, treated conservatively with above the knee plaster cast, sometimes open reduction or external fixation is required.
Treatment May include.
· Cast application after reduction.
· Insertion of pins with immobilisation in plaster.
· Internal fixation with plates and screws or intramedullary pin.
· External fixation where there is a lot of soft tissue damage. See Gun Shot Wound
This was a mismanaged case referred to Mr Al-Haddad for revision and reconstruction of the distal tibia with joint involvement.
The tibia was reconstructed using plate and screws to give a better result. The patient was able to walk normally afterward.
