Abstract
High energy fractures of the distal tibial plafond and calcaneus have been associated
with high functional morbidity and wound complications. Although both of these fractures
result from a similar mechanism, they have rarely been reported to occur on an ipsilateral
extremity. The combination of these 2 injuries on the same extremity would increase
the likelihood of an adverse surgical or functional outcome. We present the case and
management strategy of a 43-year-old male with bilateral open pilon fractures and
closed calcaneal fractures after falling from a height. A staged protocol was used
for the bilateral pilon fractures, with external fixation until operative fixation
on day 9. Nonoperative management of the calcaneal fractures resulted in a successful
functional outcome at 10 months of follow-up. Treatment of this fracture pattern must
incorporate the condition of the soft tissues, an understanding of the fractures,
and minimize patient risk factors to optimize the functional and surgical outcomes.
Level of Clinical Evidence
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: May 21, 2014
Footnotes
Financial Disclosure: None reported.
Conflict of Interest: None reported.
Identification
Copyright
© 2014 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
