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Home/Patient Education/Fractures/Pediatric Fractures/Tillaux Fracture
Fracture Care · Pediatric · Leg and Ankle

Tillaux Fracture

This transitional fracture occurs near physeal closure and is judged by joint congruity.

This page explains how a tillaux fracture is commonly managed, in plain language, based on Dr. Kee's typical approach to this injury.

Body Region
Leg and Ankle
Age Group
Pediatric
Treatment
Variable
Expected Bone Healing
Approximately 6 weeks, with return to activity later.

Every fracture is different. Treatment varies based on the exact fracture pattern, displacement, age, whether surgery is needed, bone quality, other injuries, and how an individual heals. This page is general education, not your child's personal treatment plan — always follow the specific instructions given to you by Dr. Kee's office.

Table of Contents
What Is This Injury?

This transitional fracture occurs near physeal closure and is judged by joint congruity.

Bone Doc Tip

Small articular displacement matters in a Tillaux fracture.

How Is It Treated?

This fracture may be treated with or without surgery, depending on the specific fracture pattern, how much the bone has shifted (displacement), and your individual situation. Your surgeon will determine the best approach for you.

Brace, Cast, Splint, or Sling

Short-leg cast or splint after reduction; treatment depends on articular displacement.

Walking or Using the Injured Limb

Non-weight bearing initially.

For a full explanation of what these weight-bearing terms mean, see our Weight-Bearing Guide.

When Does Motion Begin?

Toe and knee motion; ankle motion after healing phase.

Physical Therapy

Therapy if motion or gait recovery is delayed.

Follow-Up and Imaging

Prompt pediatric orthopedic follow-up.

Recovery Timeline
Short AnswerRecovery generally moves through protection, motion, weight-bearing, strengthening, and return to activity — at a pace your surgeon sets for your specific fracture.

Every fracture moves through the same general phases, though the exact timing is different for every patient:

1
Injury or Surgery
The fracture occurs, or is surgically stabilized if your surgeon recommends fixation.
2
Early Protection
Short-leg cast or splint after reduction; treatment depends on articular displacement.
3
Begin Motion
Toe and knee motion; ankle motion after healing phase.
4
Progress Use / Weight Bearing
Non-weight bearing initially.
5
Strengthening
Physical therapy often helps rebuild strength once your surgeon confirms it's safe to begin.
6
Return to Activity
Return to work, school, driving, and sports is guided by your surgeon as healing progresses.
Return to Activity

School: School with restrictions; sports after healing and functional recovery.

Sports or High-Risk Activity: Usually 3–4 months or longer depending on severity.

Watch For — Specific to This Injury

Articular displacement, inability to maintain reduction, open injury, skin threat, or neurovascular deficit.

General Warning Signs — When to Call

  • Increasing pain that isn't controlled by your prescribed plan
  • New numbness or weakness
  • Fingers or toes that become pale, blue, cold, or very swollen
  • A cast or splint that becomes excessively tight, wet, damaged, or foul-smelling
  • New drainage, spreading redness, fever, or wound concerns

See our full When to Call page for the difference between routine office contact and emergency evaluation.

Chest pain, shortness of breath, or symptoms of a possible blood clot, or any life-threatening emergency — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I be in a cast, splint, or brace for a tillaux fracture?

Short-leg cast or splint after reduction; treatment depends on articular displacement.

When can I return to work, school, driving, or sports after a tillaux fracture?

Your surgeon will guide when it's safe to return to these activities based on how your specific fracture is healing. Follow the instructions given specifically to you.

Will I need another surgery to remove hardware?

Per fixation.

Still Have Questions?

Every fracture heals differently. If you have questions about your treatment plan, reach out to Dr. Kee's office.

Request an Appointment Call (979) 207-4369
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