A retrospective review of 93 pediatric patients with open tibia fractures treated at a level 1 trauma center compared distal third and diaphyseal fractures. Distal fractures were associated with longer operative times (2.5 vs 2.1 hours), longer hospital stays (8.7 vs 6.5 days), delayed time to full weight-bearing (11.4 vs 7.2 weeks), and higher reoperation rates (41% vs 20%). These fractures more frequently required open reduction, external fixation, and soft tissue coverage. Rates of infection, delayed union, and nonunion were high in both groups.

Source: Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics