Tillaux

Tillaux Fracture is a type of ankle fracture that primarily occurs in adolescents. It is named after Paul Jules Tillaux, a French surgeon who first described this fracture in 1892. The fracture involves the anterolateral part of the distal tibial epiphysis, which is prone to injury due to its late closure during skeletal maturation.

Etiology

Tillaux fractures are caused by an avulsion injury or a twisting force applied to the foot when it is in a fixed position. This typically occurs during sports activities. The fracture is more common in adolescents because their skeletal system is still developing and the bones are not fully hardened.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a Tillaux fracture is usually made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. The patient may report pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving the affected ankle. On physical examination, there may be tenderness over the anterolateral aspect of the ankle joint. X-ray imaging is typically used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the fracture.

Treatment

The treatment of Tillaux fractures depends on the severity of the fracture and the age of the patient. Non-displaced fractures can be treated conservatively with cast immobilization. However, displaced fractures often require surgical intervention to restore the normal anatomy of the ankle joint and prevent long-term complications such as post-traumatic arthritis.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for a Tillaux fracture is generally good. However, complications can occur, particularly if the fracture is not treated promptly or correctly. These can include growth disturbance, ankle instability, and post-traumatic arthritis.

See also

• Ankle fracture
• Paul Jules Tillaux
• Distal tibial epiphysis

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