Combined Tillaux and Bimalleolar Ankle Fracture in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Adolescents are at risk of unique ankle fracture patterns due to closing physes. Transitional ankle fractures, in particular, are an entity specific to adolescent patients due to the asymmetrically open distal tibia physis. Transitional ankle fractures are rarely seen in combination with bimalleolar ankle fracture patterns. This case is of interest because the combined fracture pattern and the treatment method presented have not been previously reported in the literature to our knowledge. A 15-year-old female presented with right ankle pain after a fall while roller skating. Imaging demonstrated a right Tillaux fracture with ipsilateral displaced medial malleolus fracture and minimally displaced Weber C distal fibula fracture. The Tillaux fracture and medial malleolus fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with partially threaded compression screws. The lateral malleolus remained minimally displaced and did not require operative fixation. The patient healed well with no complications. Transitional injuries of the ankle in adolescents have been reported in the literature; however, combined injuries are uncommon and lack representation in the current literature base. These combined injuries are important to be aware of, as missed injuries can result in long-term pain and disability.