Der Unfallchirurg
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The anatomical reconstruction of tibial pilon fractures is a major challenge with respect to preoperative planning, time management and the intraoperative procedure. ⋯ Good clinical results can be achieved by an accurate preoperative planning with respect to the surgical procedure, time of surgery and the surgical steps. In cases of disregarding these points and inadequate surgical expertise, loss of function and reduced quality of life are impending.
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Because of the complex fracture morphology and vulnerable soft tissue coverage, fractures of the tibial pilon are difficult to treat. Complications are more common than in bi- or trimalleolar fractures. The surgeon has to know about the special risks of these injuries to avoid complications. ⋯ In late complications such as bony necrosis with or without deviation, non-union and osteoarthrosis of the ankle joint give the surgeon more time for planning the therapy. Intensive monitoring until bone healing is necessary in tibial pilon fractures to detect complications early and start the therapy immediately. This kind of therapy results in the best outcome for these patients.
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Pilon fractures are mainly severe and prognostically serious injuries with a high rate of relevant soft tissue involvement. The adequate decision making and choice of treatment in the early phase of trauma are of paramount importance for the final outcome. This essentially encompasses the management of the soft tissue damage, the surgical planning and the differentiated selection of procedures. ⋯ Knowledge of the multiple procedural variations for pilon fracture treatment creates the basis to optimize the treatment modalities and to take into account individual parameters of the fracture.