A pilon fracture is a break in the end of the shinbone, or tibia, near the ankle. These complex fractures can occur in a variety of different patterns.
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Pilon Fractures of the Ankle
Pilon fractures most often result from a crushing force caused by high-energy trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or fall from a height. These fractures may extend into the ankle joint and can result in multiple broken pieces, breaks through the skin, or other injuries.
While a cast and staying off the affected leg can help a pilon fracture heal, most cases of pilon fractures need surgery to realign and stabilize the broken bone. Surgery may involve the use of temporary and permanent metal hardware outside and inside the ankle joint.
Plates and screws can be used to stabilize a pilon fracture. Often, a temporary external fixator is used before surgery to align the foot and ankle to help with healing. In some cases, an ankle joint fusion may be needed to allow a pilon fracture to heal fully.
During pilon fracture surgery, incisions will be made around the end of the shinbone. This allows a surgeon to access the ankle joint and use metal plates and screws to hold the broken bone pieces together.
