Tibial pilon fractures

functional results and evaluation of quality of life

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the functional outcome and quality of life of patients with open tibial pilon fractures (AO - 43C3) undergoing surgical treatment with ligamentotaxis by means of external fixation for initial damage control, followed by open reduction and internal fixation at a later date. Methods: An original study was conducted between September 2009 and July 2013. A total of 16 patients were examined during outpatient follow-up visits. Identification questionnaires and a specific foot and ankle evaluation (the Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle score, AOFAS) were completed, along with an SF-36 quality of life evaluation. Results: Most patients showed a good range of motion (ROM), achieving a mean AOFAS score of 65 points (out of 100 possible points). The SF-36 questionnaire revealed low mean scores in the physical functioning, physical role functioning and bodily pain domains, with 60, 37 and 51 points, respectively. The average score in the general health domain was 84 points (out of a possible 100 points). Conclusion: There was significant functional and quality of life impairment in patients affected by this type of fracture, even with the use of staged treatment. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.