Case Report
Year: 2019 | Month: March | Volume: 9 | Issue: 3 | Pages: 333-336
Effectiveness of Modified Patella Tendon Bearing Orthosis for Distal Tibial Fracture - A Case Report
N. Tamizhini1, Minakshi Behera2
1Internship Student of Bachelor in Prosthetics and Orthotics, ISHWAR Institute of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
2Assistant Professor (P&O), ISHWAR Institute of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Corresponding Author: Minakshi Behera
ABSTRACT
Background: According to the AO/OTA classification, the term ‘distal tibial fracture’ includes a heterogeneous group of fractures that involve the distal part of both tibia and fibula. The modified patellar tendon bearing orthosis may be a good option for patients who would functionally deteriorate. This brace was introduced 60 years ago; however, it is under-utilized clinically and underrepresented in the literature.
Case Description and Methods: A 19-year-old boy with multiple deformities (distal tibial fracture of left leg, leg length discrepancy, equines contracture and ankle instability) resulting in an unstable ankle, who through the use of modified patellar tendon bearing orthosis, was able to walk at a supervision level without additional assistive devices. After the fitment of orthosis the subject was assessed and the gait parameters were taken on 6 meter walking way.
Result: After the fitment of orthosis with initial gait training, he was able to walk independently without any crutches.
Conclusion: Modified PTB orthosis can be considered as a very excellent orthosis for the orthotic management of distal tibial fracture. As this orthosis fulfils all the desired function with some additions like light weight, good cosmesis and better weight transmission.
Key words: Modified patella tendon bearing orthosis, multiple deformities, distal tibial fracture, non-weight-bearing, Gait parameters.