A 19-year-old female Olympic pole vaulter presented to the NYOTS with a 12-month history of right-sided tibia pain. Radiographs revealed a mid-shaft stress fracture of the anterior tibial cortex. After past unsuccessful initial treatment with rest and physiotherapy modalities (including ultrasound) for 5 months, she underwent anterior tension band plating with a locked LCP plate and unicortical and bicortical screws. Postoperative follow-up was uneventful and bony union was noted at 3 months post-operatively at which time she resumed her training regime. Two years after the operation, the patient complained of mild discomfort related to the plate, and the hardware was removed. At most recent date of follow up, 2 years post surgery, she is doing exceptionally well with resolution of pain and is training again for the Olympic team.
IMAGES
- Figure A Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral radiographs reveal a stress fracture of the anterior tibial cortex.
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- Figure B AP and lateral radiographs 3 months following anterior tension band plating illustrating a healed tibial stress fracture.
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