Role of Fibular Osteotomy in Achieving Tibial Union

Abstract

Background:  Tibial shaft fractures are among the most common long bone fractures, and early weight-bearing has been shown to increase the rate of bony union. However, an intact fibula can serve as a strut that distracts the tibial fragment and delays or prevents union. To address this issue, a fibular osteotomy has been performed, in which a segment of fibula measuring 1-2.5 cm in length is removed from middle one third of fibula and the patient is allowed weight bearing with PTB cast. This procedure has been effective in treating delayed and hypertrophic non-union by redistributing axial tibial loading.