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Anterior approach to the Tibia

Position

  • supine

Landmarks

  • shaft of tibia

Incision

  • straight longitudinal incision on anterior surface of leg
  • parallel & 1cm lateral to anterior border of tibia

Internervous Plane

  • Subperiosteal plane

Superficial Dissection

  • Elevate the skin flaps to expose the subcutaneous surface of tibia
  • Taking care not to damage
    • Long saphenous vein on medial side of calf

Deep Dissection

  • Two surfaces can be approached
    • Subcutaneous medial surface
      • Incise periosteum longitudinally in the middle of the subcutaneous surface
      • Reflect it anterior & posteriorly
    • Lateral Extensor surface
      • Incise the periosteum longitudinally over the anterior border of tibia
      • Subperiosteally, reflext tibialis anterior laterally