OBJECTIVETo explore the clinical effects of closed reduction and less invasive stablization system for the treatment of proximal tibial multi-segment comminuted fractures, and to discuss the influence of LISS on reduction and bone union.

METHODSFrom 2003.7 to 2007.12, 19 patients with proximal tibial multi-segment comminuted fractures were treated with closed reduction and LISS fixation. Fourteen patients were male, 5 patients were female, ranging in age from 21 to 49 years, with an average of 39.2 years. Fifteen patients were injured with direct violence, 4 indirect violence. The reasons of the injuries were vehicle crashes for 14 cases and falling from high places for 3 cases and falling to the ground for 2 cases. All the patients were followed up postoperatively. Callus formation and bony union were recorded by X-ray.

RESULTSAll the patients were followed up for a period averaged 12.2 months (ranged 8 to 21 months). No failure of fixation and nonunion. No deformation of plates and screws occurred in patients,no superficial wound infection. According to the criteria of Merchan, 14 patients got an excellent result, 3 good, and 2 poor.

CONCLUSIONClosed reduction and less invasive stabilization systems can provide rigid internal fixation for proximal tibial multi-segment comminuted fractures. The LISS provides stable fixation, a high rate of union, and a low rate of infection for proximal tibial multi-segment comminuted fractures.