Comparison of the exposure of the distal tibial articular surface for posterior pilon fractures via a medial or lateral malleolar osteotomy: a preliminary cadaveric study.

Authors: Yang F, Ye L, Chen C, Huang M, Sun Y, Shen Z, Hu J, Wang L.

DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1702938

Abstract Summary

Study compares medial vs. lateral surgical approaches for accessing the distal tibial joint surface. Both methods exposed similar areas (~45-47% initially, increasing to 53-63% with marking). Posterior third showed best exposure (61-65%). Soft tissue distraction added ~10% visibility with either approach. Findings suggest surgeons should select approach based on fracture location for optimal access.

Why Brain? 🧠

Cadaver study shows medial and lateral ankle approaches expose ~45-63% of posterior tibial fracture surfaces equally. Surgeons should choose approach based on individual fracture location for optimal repair.

License: CC BY.

The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.