Does Joint Lavage Reduce Intraarticular Inflammation in High-energy Tibial Pilon Fractures?
High-energy tibial pilon fractures have historically been associated with poor outcomes largely due to the elevated risk of severe post-traumatic arthritis. Intraarticular fractures result in a pro-inflammatory hemarthrosis that may further exacerbate the chondral damage that was sustained due to the original injury. This project will study the effect of joint lavage on the concentration of inflammatory cytokines in the ankle following a high-energy tibial pilon fracture and the resultant effect on short-term patient outcomes.
• Male or female age 18 years or older
• Present with an axially unstable tibial pilon fracture requiring temporary external fixation followed by delayed definitive internal fixation
• Able to give informed consent