Traumatic Dislocations of the Proximal Tibiofibular Associated with Tibial Fractures: Challenges in Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

Approximately 1-2% of tibial fractures are associated with traumatic dislocations of the proximal tibiofibular joint. The associated injury pattern is frequently the result of a severe high-energy injury. Establishing the diagnosis of a proximal tibiofibular dislocation is frequently complicated by the fairly subtle clinical and radiographic presentation of this injury. Computer tomography scans of the knee should be considered for proper evaluation. Surgical treatment should consist of proper fixation of the tibial fracture followed by open reduction and internal fixation of the dislocated proximal tibiofibular joint. Multiple fixation options exist including screw, K-wire, and suture fixation constructs.