title: Pilon fractures of the distal tibia.
abstract: Pilon fractures are one of the most complicated injuries confronting the lower extremity traumatologist. When faced with the pilon fracture, the surgeon must adhere to the principles of anatomic reduction and rigid stabilization to achieve early range of motion. Open reduction and internal or external fixation or a combination of fixation techniques, expertly placed, ensure the best possible outcome with the least complications. A functional lower extremity following a pilon fracture is possible with meticulous evaluation and repair.
authors.affiliation: Broadlawns Medical Center, Des Moines, Iowa, USA.
authors.forename: V J
authors.initials: VJ
authors.lastname: Mandracchia
authors.forename: R D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Evans
authors.forename: S C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Nelson
authors.forename: K M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Smith
mesh_terms: D016267:External Fixators; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices; D009985:Orthopedics; D011182:Postoperative Care; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*