OBJECTIVETo explore the methods and therapeutic effects of trans-fibular anterior-lateral approach combined with external fixation in the treatment of Gustilo III distal tibiofibula fractures.

METHODSFrom 2007 to 2010,9 patients including 7 males and 2 females with the mean age of 40 years(ranging from 29 to 51 years). All patients received internal fixation of fibula after debridement on the first phase, external fixator were used to fix tibia across ankle joint, and removed after successful skin graft; The second phase tibia was used to fix through the lateral incision used in phase I. Early functional exercise was encouraged ,the union condition and functional results of the ankle joint was evealuated. The criteria of the AOFAS Foot and Ankle Surgery was used to evaluate the effects.

RESULTSAll patients were followed up,and the duration ranged for 8 to 37 months(averaged 21 months). Nine patients were achieved bony union, the average healing time was 24 weeks. No plate rupture or screw loosening was found. According to the AOFAS Foot and Ankle Surgery evaluation system, 3 cases got excellent results, 4 good cases and 2 fair.

CONCLUSIONTrans-fibular anterior-lateral approach combined with external fixation for Gustilo III distal tibiofibula fractures can receive satisfactory reset, debond ankle joint eralier and imporove the clinical effects.