What is it?
A pilon fracture is a break at the bottom of the shin bone (tibia) that extends into the ankle joint. It is usually caused by a high-energy injury and often involves significant swelling and soft-tissue damage.
What causes it?
- Falls from height.
- Road traffic accidents.
- High-energy sports injuries.
Common symptoms
- Severe pain and swelling.
- Bruising and blistering.
- Inability to put weight on the leg.
How is it diagnosed?
X-rays and a CT scan are used to understand the fracture in detail.
Things you can do now
- Keep the leg raised as much as possible
- Follow advice on weight bearing exactly
- Don't smoke, as it slows healing and increases wound problems
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include temporary stabilisation while swelling settles, sometimes with an external frame, surgery to rebuild the joint with plates and screws and longer-term rehabilitation.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Pilon fractures are serious injuries that need specialist care from the start
- Increasing pain, swelling or numbness after treatment: seek urgent advice
- The foot becomes hot, red and swollen, or you feel feverish or unwell: seek urgent medical advice the same day
What to expect
These are complex fractures, and recovery is long, often a year or more. Careful staged treatment gives the best chance of a good outcome.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about pilon fractures in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with pilon fractures at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.