Introduction:

Tillaux fracture, also known as Tillaux-Chaput fracture, is a specific type of ankle fracture that involves the distal tibia and occurs primarily in adolescents. This article provides an overview of Tillaux fracture, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Causes of Tillaux Fracture:

Tillaux fractures occur as a result of an external rotational force applied to the ankle joint during growth plate closure. This commonly happens during activities such as sports or accidents that involve sudden twisting or torsional movements of the ankle. The fracture typically involves the anterolateral portion of the distal tibia, specifically the Tillaux-Chaput fragment.

Symptoms of Tillaux Fracture:

The signs and symptoms of Tillaux fracture may include:

• Acute onset of ankle pain following an injury or trauma
• Swelling and bruising around the ankle joint
• Difficulty or inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Limited range of motion in the ankle
• Visible deformity in severe cases

Diagnosis of Tillaux Fracture:

A healthcare professional will perform a physical examination of the ankle to assess the range of motion, stability, and identify any tenderness or deformity. Diagnostic imaging tests are crucial for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the severity of the fracture. These may include:

• X-ray: An X-ray of the ankle will reveal the presence of a fracture and provide detailed information about the location and displacement of the Tillaux-Chaput fragment.
• CT scan: In complex fractures or cases where additional information is needed, a CT scan may be ordered to obtain a more detailed view of the fracture and surrounding structures.

Treatment of Tillaux Fracture:

The treatment approach for Tillaux fracture depends on various factors, including the severity of the fracture, age of the patient, and the extent of displacement. Treatment options may include:

• Non-weight-bearing and immobilization: In less severe cases, non-weight-bearing and immobilization with a cast or walking boot may be sufficient to promote healing.
• Closed reduction: If the fracture is displaced, a closed reduction may be performed to realign the bone fragments. This may be done manually or with the assistance of imaging guidance.
• Surgical intervention: In cases of significant displacement or unstable fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary. This typically involves open reduction and internal fixation with screws or plates to stabilize the fracture fragments.

Recovery and Rehabilitation:

Following treatment, a period of immobilization is often required to allow for proper healing. Once the fracture has healed sufficiently, physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are initiated to restore range of motion, strength, and function to the ankle joint. The duration of recovery varies depending on the severity of the fracture and individual factors.

Conclusion:

Tillaux fracture is a specific type of ankle fracture that primarily affects adolescents. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for optimal outcomes. If you suspect a Tillaux fracture or experience ankle pain following an injury, seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.

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