Classification to guide internal fixation for tibial fracture

Objective: To explore a classification method which can provide the clinical guidance for internal fixation of tibial fracture. Methods: The different fractures were fixed according to their mechanical classification. Totally, 71 cases of tibial plateau fracture, tibial proximal fracture, tibial distal fracture and Pilon fracture were analyzed to test this selective principle. Results: All 71 patients were followed up for 6-32 months. The displacement was seldomly observed in cases treated acccording to the classification principle, while some cases against the principle had postoperative displacement. The difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). It was proved that there was remarkable correlation between tibial fracture classification, internal fixator and fixation methods. Conclusion: Types IIIa3, IIIb1 and IIIb2 fractures without eccentric moment should be fixed with double plates or angle-stable materials combined with locking structure, otherwise displacement may occur.