ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical effects of the anterolateral tibial approach in the treatment of Pilon fracture.

MethodsA total of 28 patients with Pilon fracture were randomly divided into the anterior lateral approach group(group A) and traditional medial approach group(group B)(14 cases each group).The incision length, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, fracture healing time, fracture reduction, postoperative complications and postoperative ankle function between two groups were compared.

ResultsThe differences of the anatomical reduction rate, operation time and fracture healing time between two groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).The incision length in group A was significantly shorter than that in group B, and the intraoperative bleeding and postoperative drainage volume in group A were significantly lower than those in group B(P < 0.01).The differences of the excellent rate of joint function and incidence rate of complications between two groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).The Barid-Jackson score in group A was significantly higher than that in group B(P < 0.01).

ConclusionsThe anterolateral tibial approach in the treatment of Pilon fracture except to severe crushing and collapse of the inner side of the articular surface can achieve satisfactory efficacy and promote the patients to recover as soon as possible, which is superior to the traditional medial and lateral approach.