SUMMARY
Background: Comparison of minimally invasive plate versus intramedullary nailing in the treatment of distal tibial metaphyseal fractureMethods: Treatment was made by locked anatomic tibial plate with MIPO technique on 17 patients (Group1), closed intramedullary nailing on 18 patients (Group2). The cases were evaluated with the AFAS score.Results: The median operation duration was 90(59-139)mins in Group1, 77.5(59-145)mins in Group2. The median union time was 15(11-20)weeks in Group1, 18(12-22)weeks in Group2. The median AFAS score was 84(47-90) in Group1, 82(65-90) in Group2. The most common complication was infection in Group1 and malunion in Group2. Only the difference in operation time was found to be statistically significant between the two groupsConclusions: The clinical and functional results of both treatment methods were similar and effective. Malalignment should be kept in mind when treating with intramedullary nail; infection when treating with MIPO.Key words: Fracture; distal tibia; intramedullary nailing; minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis