INTERNAL FIXATION OF THE FIBULA IN FRACTURES OF BOTH BONES OF THE LEG

In 15 cases of fracture of both bones of the leg, internal fixation of the fibula was carried out as the principal means for splinting the tibia. The effectiveness of this method is explained by the anatomical relationship of these two bones. Eleven of the 15 cases were acute fractures of the supramalleolar region, but the advantages of the operation were also demonstrated in cases of infected nonunion of the tibia, since the area of fracture could be stabilized without disturbing the tibial site. Functional results have generally been gratifying. Internal fixation of the fibula is effective in the following situations: supramalleolar fractures, badly comminuted or compound diaphysial fractures, transcondylar fractures, and fractures with nonunion or malunion.