Pilon fracture: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 15:11, 30 April 2022

Fracture of the distal end of the tibia aka tibial plafond (French for ceiling) due to hitting the talar dome
- Typically due to high energy axial loading injuries (motor vehicle accident, fall from height)
Also known as a tibial plafond fracture

Pilon fracture

Pilon Fracture

Plain radiographs
- AP, Lateral, and Mortise views of ankle
CT often necessary to reveal amount of articular surface displacement/develop treatment plan

Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation
Inspect skin for signs of open fracture
Suspect other fracture as well, given mechanism:
- Lumbar spine (esp L1), calcaneus, talar dome, tibial plateau, femoral neck, acetabulum,
Monitor for compartment syndrome

Acute pain management
Open fractures require immediate IV antibiotics and urgent surgical washout
Neurovascular compromise from fracture requires emergent reduction and/or orthopedic intervention
Consider risk for compartment syndrome

If stabilized without evidence of significant articular displacement, can be managed as outpatient after consultation with Ortho

Authors:

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 ==Background==
-*High energy axial loading injury that drives tibial plafond  (French for ceiling) into talar dome
+*Fracture of the distal end of the tibia aka tibial plafond (French for ceiling) due to hitting the talar dome
-**Motor vehicle accidents, falls from height
+**Typically due to high energy axial loading injuries (motor vehicle accident, fall from height)
-**"Pilon" is another word for pestle, a tool used to grind substance in a mortar
 *Also known as a tibial plafond fracture