Name:
Uzair Bajwa
Department
BS-MIU
Roll no:
016
Submitted to:
Dr. Maida
Subject:
Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging
The tibia, or shinbone, is one of the two long bones in the lower leg, along with the fibula. It is
the larger, stronger bone and supports most of the body's weight.
Key Features
• Proximal End: Includes the medial and lateral condyles, forming part of the knee joint,
and the tibial tuberosity, where the patellar ligament attaches.
• Shaft: The long, straight portion of the bone.
• Distal End: Includes the medial malleolus, forming part of the ankle joint.
Functions
• Weight Bearing: Supports body weight.
• Movement: Essential for walking, running, and jumping.
• Muscle Attachment: Provides attachment points for muscles.
Common Issues
• Fractures: Breaks in the bone.
• Shin Splints: Pain along the inner edge of the tibia.
• Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Painful swelling just below the knee.
Tibial Fracture:
A tibial fracture refers to a break or crack in the tibia, one of the two long bones in the lower leg.
The tibia, also known as the shinbone, is the larger and stronger of the two bones (the other being
the fibula) and is critical for weight-bearing and movement. Tibial fractures can vary in severity
and type, depending on the location and nature of the break.
Types of Tibial Fractures
1. Transverse Fracture: A straight horizontal break across the tibia.
2. Oblique Fracture: An angled break across the bone.
3. Spiral Fracture: A fracture where the bone has been twisted apart.
4. Comminuted Fracture: The bone is broken into several pieces.
5. Open (Compound) Fracture: The bone breaks through the skin, posing a higher risk of
infection.
6. Closed Fracture: The bone breaks but does not pierce the skin.
7. Stress Fracture: A small, hairline crack in the bone often due to repetitive force or
overuse
Symptoms:
• Severe pain at the site of the fracture
• Swelling and tenderness
• Bruising or discoloration
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Deformity or abnormal alignment of the leg
Diagnosis:
• Physical Examination: To check for signs of swelling, deformity, and pain.
• Imaging Tests:
• X-rays: To visualize the bone structure and identify the location and type of
fracture.
• CT scan or MRI: May be used for more detailed images, especially in complex
or subtle fractures.
CT SCAN
MRI
Treatment:
The treatment of a tibial fracture depends on the severity and type of the fracture. Options
include:
• Immobilization: Using a cast or brace to keep the bone in place while it heals.
• Reduction: Manually realigning the bone fragments if they are displaced.
• Surgery: Required for severe fractures, especially open or comminuted fractures.
Surgical options include:
• Intramedullary nailing: A metal rod is inserted into the marrow canal of the tibia.
• Plates and screws: Metal plates and screws are used to hold the bone fragments
together.
• External fixation: A frame is used outside the leg to stabilize the bones with pins and
screws.
Recovery:
• Rest and Rehabilitation: Limited weight-bearing and gradual return to activities with
physical therapy.
• Pain Management: Medications to control pain and inflammation.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments and imaging to ensure proper healing.
Complications:
• Infection (especially with open fractures)
• Nonunion (bone does not heal properly)
• Malunion (bone heals in an incorrect position)
• Compartment syndrome (increased pressure within the muscles)
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
X-ray of Tibial Fracture
