Tibial shaft fracture

This page is for adult patients; for pediatric patients see tibia fracture (peds)

Background

• Open fracture is common due to minimal amount of subcutaneous tissue
• Fibula is often fractured as well

Clinical Features

• Localized pain/swelling
• Inability to bear weight

Differential Diagnosis

Distal Leg Fracture Types

• Tibial plateau fracture
• Tibial shaft fracture
• Pilon fracture
• Maisonneuve fracture
• Tibia fracture (peds)
• Ankle fracture
  • Ankle fracture (peds)
    • Tillaux fracture
• Foot and toe fractures

Management

• Long leg posterior splint
  • Knee at 5 degrees flexion, foot in slight plantarflexion
• Rule-out compartment syndrome

Disposition

• Consider discharge if low-energy injury and patient not at risk of compartment syndrome

See Also

• Fractures (Main)
• Tibia fracture (peds)