الإصدار 7 - العدد 19 (2026-10-20)

Minimally Invasive Management of Pediatric Distal Tibial Fracture: A Case-Based Perspective on Clinical Decision-Making and Patient Care

1- Dr: Ammar Ahamed Ibrahium

2- Dr: Ahmed Al Sadwey Mustfa

3- Dr: Hazim Adel Ahmed

Khafji General Hospital - Ministry of Health - Eastern Region- Saudi Arabia

Pediatric fractures require careful clinical decision-making that considers the patient’s age, fracture characteristics, treatment approach, and subsequent recovery. This case-based study presents the clinical management and follow-up of a 13-year-old boy with a displaced oblique right distal tibial Salter-Harris type IV fracture. The fracture was diagnosed using plain radiographs and computed tomography (CT). The patient underwent closed reduction and fixation using a conventional anti-gliding plate and screws through a minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique. Clinical follow-up was conducted for 16 weeks, and the final radiographic assessment demonstrated fracture healing. At the end of the follow-up period, the patient was able to achieve full weight-bearing without complications.

The case highlights the importance of appropriate clinical decision-making and careful follow-up in the management of pediatric fractures. It also demonstrates the practical application of a minimally invasive treatment approach using conventional plate and screw fixation while maintaining satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes. From a patient-care perspective, the case illustrates the role of an appropriate treatment strategy, continuous clinical monitoring, and follow-up in supporting recovery among pediatric and adolescent patients with distal tibial fractures.