Triplane fracture of the proximal tibial epiphysis.

Our purpose is to report a very rare case of proximal tibia triplane fracture, focusing the particular pattern of fracture and the long-term follow-up result. The triplane fracture is an exceptional fracture that occurs in the 3 planes (coronal, sagittal and transverse) close to the end of the growth period. A 15-year-old boy was admitted to our Center for a left femoral diaphyseal fracture and an ipsilateral lateral proximal tibia triplane fracture following a road accident. The femur was fixed with an intramedullary nail, the triplane fracture was anatomically reduced and percutaneously fixed. After 4 years follow-up, the knee was stable and with no complaints. Its range of motion was complete. Radiographs and MRI did not show any abnormality on the left leg and knee. In order to stabilize a proximal tibia triplane fracture a surgical internal fixation is usually required, with the possibility of a good long-term outcome also due to the growth potential remaining, if physeal arrest does not occur.