Tibial Plafond Fracture

By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com Guide

Updated September 08, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

This patient sustained a fracture of the tibia. Fractures of the tibia just above the ankle joint are called tibial plafond fractures. These fractures are concerning for two reasons:

• First, there is little muscle and soft-tissue covering the bone in this region. Therefore, swelling can be a significant problem, and may prevent surgery from being performed until the swelling subsides.

• Second, the fracture line often extends into the cartilage of the ankle joint. Because of this, the ankle is prone to developing arthritis due to uneven bone surfaces.

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• Tibial Plafond Fracture
• Close-Up of Tibial Plafond Fracture
• Post-Operative X-Ray Tibial Plafond Fracture

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