Pilon fracture

Background

• Axial loading injury that drives tibial plafond (French for ceiling) into talar dome
  • "Pilon" is another word for pestle, a tool used to grind substance in a mortar
• Also known as a tibial plafond fracture

Differential Diagnosis

Distal Leg Fracture Types

• Tibial plateau fracture
• Tibial shaft fracture
• Pilon fracture
• Maisonneuve fracture
• Tibia fracture (peds)
• Ankle fracture
  • Ankle fracture (peds)
    • Tillaux fracture
• Foot and toe fractures

Diagnosis

Pilon Fracture

• Suspect other fractures as well:
  • Lumbar spine (esp L1), calcaneus, talar dome, tibial plateau, femoral neck, acetabulum,
• Monitor for compartment syndrome

Imaging

• CT necessary to reveal amount of articular surface displacement/develop treatment plan

Management

• Long leg posterior splint
• Consult ortho for surgery

See Also

• Fractures (Main)
• Ankle (Main)