Pilon fracture
Updates to Article Attributes
Body
was changed:
A pilon fracture is a type of fracture involving the distal tibia. These are considered to represent 1-10% of all lower limb fractures 6.
Mechanism
Typically occurs as a result of an axial loading injury which drives the talus into the tibial plafond.
Classification
Several classification systems exist. Frequently adopted is the one proposed by Ruedi and AlgowerAllgower 5:
- type I: articular fracture with minimal or no displacement
- type II: displacement of the articular surface but with minimal or no comminution
- type III: marked comminution as well as articular impaction
Radiographic features
Plain radiograph / CT
Exact features vary with type, but commonly:
- fractures lines are seen extending into the tibiotalar articular surface
- oblique fracture components may extend proximally into the tibial shaft
- depending on the severity, fractures may also involve the fibula
History and etymology
Derived from the French word pilon (pestle), an instrument used for crushing and pounding and usually used with a mortar.
-<p>A <strong>pilon fracture</strong> is a type of fracture involving the distal tibia. These are considered to represent 1-10% of all <a href="/articles/lower-extremity-fractures">lower limb fractures</a> <sup>6</sup>. </p><h4>Mechanism</h4><p>Typically occurs as a result of an axial loading injury which drives the talus into the tibial plafond.</p><h4>Classification</h4><p>Several classification systems exist. Frequently adopted is the one proposed by <strong>Ruedi</strong> and <strong>Algower </strong><sup>5</sup>:</p><ul>- +<p>A <strong>pilon fracture</strong> is a type of fracture involving the distal tibia. These are considered to represent 1-10% of all <a href="/articles/lower-extremity-fractures">lower limb fractures</a> <sup>6</sup>. </p><h4>Mechanism</h4><p>Typically occurs as a result of an axial loading injury which drives the talus into the tibial plafond.</p><h4>Classification</h4><p>Several classification systems exist. Frequently adopted is the one proposed by <strong>Ruedi</strong> and <strong>Allgower </strong><sup>5</sup>:</p><ul>