This study is looking at whether a procedure called joint lavage can help reduce inflammation in the ankle joint after a high-energy tibial pilon fracture (a break in the shin bone near the ankle). These types of fractures often lead to severe arthritis. Researchers believe that blood in the joint after an injury can cause more damage. In this study, doctors will irrigate the ankle joint with 1 liter of normal saline during surgery. They will then measure inflammatory cytokines (proteins that cause inflammation) in the joint fluid after two years to see if the lavage made a difference. You may be able to join if you are 18 or older, have an unstable tibial pilon fracture requiring temporary external fixation, and can give informed consent. The study aims to enroll 40 participants.

Study design

This is an interventional study with a planned enrollment of 40 participants. The phase of the study is not specified.

What's involved

Participants will undergo an arthrotomy (a surgical incision into a joint) at the time of temporary external fixation, where 1 liter of normal saline will be used to irrigate the ankle joint.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

The primary endpoint, measuring inflammatory cytokines, will be assessed at 2 years after the procedure.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.