[Bridging knee arthrodesis using a modular titanium rod after infected tibial head fracture]

Abstract

High-energy fractures of the tibial head can lead to severe soft tissue damage which determines the time of definitive osteosynthesis. Due to infections during treatment, both soft tissue defects and bony infections may occur. We report on a 60-year-old motorcyclist who suffered a tibial head fracture Schatzker type VI. After open reduction and internal fixation he was sent to us with a severe soft tissue defect and infection of the proximal tibia and knee joint. Infection eradication and avoidance of amputation were achieved by resection of the infected proximal tibia and bridging arthrodesis with a cementless titanium rod (Brehm, Weisendorf, Germany).